Atletico Madrid could reportedly consider approaching Everton defender Lucas Digne to solve their problems in the left-back slot.
According to Fichajes, Atletico Madrid are interested in Lucas Digne, as Diego Simeone might prefer to sign the former Barcelona left-back to solve a problem area on his team.
Lucas Digne has been one of Everton’s most consistent players ever since arriving from Barcelona in August 2018. The French left-back was bought in to replace veteran defender Leighton Baines and has done a fine job in the position.
Last season, Digne produced the best output of his career, providing seven assists in the Premier League campaign. With that, he cemented his status as one of the division’s best players in the position. There has been mild interest from some big clubs in the last year, although nothing could be considered substantial enough in this period.
However, Atletico Madrid are now reportedly keen on the Everton defender, with Diego Simeone looking at a left-back as a solution for a difficult position in his team. The Argentine manager is thinking about approaching the Toffees in the January window, with the Colchoneros eager to retain their La Liga title, thereby needing quality defenders in the squad.
Renan Lodi remains the only out and out left-back in the squad, while Mario Hermoso can be deployed in the position. Simeone remains unconvinced by those players and has also played Yannick Carrasco as a left wing-back, albeit to mixed results.
Digne represents a quality full-back who has featured previously in La Liga during his spell with Barcelona. His defensive and attacking gameplay could make him an asset to AtleticoMadrid, although Everton might demand a big fee for their key player.
Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on several Premier League stars heading into the January transfer window, with Simeone looking to address many key issues in his squad. The search for a striker is ongoing, with Alexandre Lacazette a target. Edinson Cavani’s name has also been mentioned, although the Frenchman represents a fairly medium-term option compared to the Uruguayan.
The reigning La Liga champions also need a central defender, with Everton’s Yerry Mina in their sights. Then again, it remains to be seen if Everton let both their defenders go in the January window as they are already in a difficult position in the Premier League.
However, in the chase for Digne, the Frenchman might consider the approach as Atletico can offer him European football and a chance to win trophies. This is the dream he harboured while at Barcelona, even winning a few titles, albeit from a bench role for most parts.
As things stand, Everton could demand a substantial fee considering Digne has a contract until the summer of 2025. The Madrid side will look to launch an approach, but if the Frenchman is out of their range, Simeone will certainly look at alternatives.
