The Turkish International Caglar Soyuncu
Over the years, Diego Simeone has not only carved out a reputation for building resilient defensive lines but also for producing star defenders individually.
Several of Atletico Madrid’s renowned centre-backs were not big names until they arrived at the Civitas Metropolitano but mastered their trade during their tenure there.
The story of their latest target, Caglar Soyuncu, is similar. The Turkish International has not been in the best form with Leicester City in recent times, but that has not detracted Simeone from his pursuit.
According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Atletico Madrid are close to completing the signing of Soyuncu for 2023. The deal is not done or signed yet, but the negotiations are advanced and appears close to being sealed.
Both parties are working hard to close the deal, and an official announcement could be imminent. Aston Villa and AS Roma also were interested in the centre-back but are now out of the race.
Atletico Madrid were reportedly helped by a special clause on the player’s contract that favoured a move outside England in the winter transfer window.
Any English club negotiating with him for a move in January would have to shell out a fixed fee, one that clubs from other leagues can bypass.
In 14 games this season, Diego Simeone’s men have conceded 14 goals and have been far from their usual leak-proof selves. It is very concerning that they have seen only four clean sheets so far in the league, and Soyuncu’s signing could help fortify their goal further.
The Turkish International has barely played for the English side this season, making just one appearance so far in the 2022/23 Premier League. In his only game of the season, which came against Manchester City, he recorded six defensive actions.
[Source: madriduniversal.com]