Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has confirmed that a deal is close to being agreed for Lyon striker Moussa Dembele.
The 24-year-old is on the radar of the La Liga leaders as they look to replace the departed Diego Costa. Simeone is quoted as a saying “the deal is not done yet but we’re in advanced talks to sign him.”
According to Fabrizio Romano, Dembele will be an Atletico Madrid player in the next few days. The last details of the move could even be confirmed today with Dembele set for a spell in Spain.
Diego Simeone Confirms a Deal is Close With Lyon to Sign Moussa Dembele
Sineone Look Set to Land Diego Costa Replacement
The Lyon striker appears to be the man Simeone wants to boost his Atletico Madrid attack. Dembele has been on the fringes of the Lyon side this season, starting just six league games this campaign.
He has fallen behind Karl Toko-Ekambi and Tino Kadewere, who have formed an excellent partnership for the current Ligue 1 leaders. Dembele has managed just one league goal this season and it appears his time in France is coming to an end. However, Dembele has demonstrated how deadly he can be scoring 24 goals in 27 league games last season.
Diego Simeone has been on the hunt for a striker since releasing Diego Costa from his contract in December. The club cancelled his deal early with Costa becoming a free agent now rather than in the summer. Dembele appears to be the man Simeone wants and now it’s a case of agreeing on a deal with Lyon.
Dembele Could Help Atletico to La Liga Title
The 24-year-old will join an Atletico Madrid side flying high at the top of La Liga. Simeone’s side have a one-point lead at the top but have three games in hand on the sides below them. Those games could tilt the title race in their favour should they collect maximum points.
Dembele will join a quality front line led by Luis Suarez and Joao Felix. His arrival further enhances their options and Dembele will certainly relish the chance to play under the charismatic Argentine.
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