Atletico Madrid is in negotiations with Monaco to land Liverpool target Thomas Lemar, who is expected to cost around at least €90 million.
Atletico Madrid is very devoted to luring Thomas Lemar away from the city of Monaco as the Spanish club’s Director of Sport, Andrea Berta has traveled to France to negotiate further for the Liverpool target as reported by a Spanish publication AS. Atletico Madrid are determined to buy Lemar, irrespective of the departure of Antoine Griezmann, who has been linked to Barcelona.
Monaco have already sold Fabinho to Liverpool for €50 million in the current window. Similarly, they could be convinced to part with Lemar too, if Atletico Madrid negotiate efficiently. But, Monaco might be hoping for a bigger fee for their young attacking midfielder compared to what they received for Fabinho.
Thomas Lemar has been included in the French national squad for the World Cup 2018 and his price will certainly rise if he has a commendable tournament, a situation which Atletico Madrid seems to have taken into account, which is why they want to sign the youngster as soon as possible.
Lemar’s characteristics have gotten a few clubs’ attention – an attacking midfielder with blistering pace, a skilful and compelling finisher and who would be crucial for Diego Simeone’s side as he is hard working and won’t avoid his defensive obligations.
Liverpool on the other hand, have been perennially linked to Thomas Lemar and were touted to be the favourites to land the AS Monaco star at one point. But, with the Reds now focusing on Nabil Fekir, Atletico Madrid seems to have leapt in front of Liverpool in the race to sign the Frenchman, with a €90 million deal touted to be in its negotiation phase.
This season, Lemar has managed to score only 3 goals and 8 assists in 35 appearances for Monaco. His form has not been up to his potential, and he was unable to replicate his form from the title-winning 2016/17 season. But there are no doubts about his capabilities and talent.
It is very important for Atletico Madrid to add more quality in their attack as Antonio Griezmann has created doubts on his stay at Atletico Madrid after he said that he will decide his future before the World Cup, but it is reported that he is close to a move to Barcelona.
The young French international will be a great asset to Atletico Madrid as he has shown his brilliance at many times. The Spanish club has favourable chances to bring Lemar to the Capital of Spain as Los Rojiblancos appreciates a decent association with Monaco, plus their recent triumph of Europa League and second place in La Liga can maybe help them land the youngster ahead of Liverpool.
