Manchester United and Liverpool are hesitant on meeting Jose Gimenez’s release clause, according to reports
According to Don Balon, both Manchester United and Liverpool’s interest in Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez has intensified over the last few weeks, with both clubs keen on adding the Uruguayan international to their ranks.
Don Balon claim that United are leading the race for the 22 year old but that Liverpool are intent on signing him as well. However, both clubs are reportedly hesitating when it comes to meeting Gimenez’s €45 million release clause.
They state that both clubs want a reduction in price and despite the fact that Gimenez is highly-rated by manager Diego Simeone, Atletico may be willing to part ways with him this summer after niggling injuries and the rise of Stefan Savic have seen his route to the first team blocked.
Gimenez, who signed for Atletico in 2013 from Danubio, is a tough-tackling defender who is known for his concentration as well as his ball-playing ability.
This season, he has been registering an average of 2.61 tackles won, 2.35 interceptions and an impressive 4.05 aerial duels won per 90 minutes in 13 appearances in the La Liga, according to Squawka.
Manchester United are on the lookout for defensive reinforcements and have been linked with Gimenez constantly since Jose Mourinho took over, and it was reported at the end of last month that Gimenez himself had set his sights on a move to Old Trafford this summer.
Chris Smalling and Daley Blind have failed to impress Mourinho and prove themselves as viable long-term options to partner Eric Bailly at the back. At 22, Gimenez could be exactly what Mourinho is looking for.
Liverpool are also in need of defensive reinforcements. Joel Matip has been an unequivocal success since signing on a free in the summer and despite Dejan Lovren’s improving form, the Croatian is still susceptible to errors and has shown that on several occasions this season.
Liverpool are also short at the back, with injuries forcing Klopp to often play midfielder Lucas at centre-back this season so it is no surprise that Klopp is still on the lookout for several more additions to his squad.
Both the clubs are likely to be able to come to a an agreement in terms of transfer fee but should it come down to a question of wages and a bidding war, Manchester United’s financial prowess might give them the edge. However, it remains to be seen whether or not Atletico Madrid themselves will part with the defender this summer.
