Atletico Madrid planning to hijack Barcelona target Marcelo Brozovic

Atletico Madrid are preparing a summer move for Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic, who is wanted by Barcelona, reports Sport.

Barca have identified the Croatian international as a replacement for Sergio Busquets and even tried to recruit him in the January transfer window.

However, with the Catalan giants now willing to renew Busquets’ contract and the priority turning out to be strengthening the attack and defence, they could no longer pursue Brozovic seriously.

Furthermore, the Blaugrana’s financial crisis would not allow them to splurge on expensive targets like Brozovic unless they make a massive clearout.

Fellow La Liga rivals Atletico have now entered the frame and are considering signing Brozovic in the summer.

Los Rojiblancos have endured a disappointing season, having been eliminated from all major tournaments, and they have anything but the top-four spot to fight for in La Liga.

As a result, Atletico are likely to undergo a massive overhaul in the summer, with more signings and departures expected on all fronts.

Diego Simeone is said to be an admirer of Brozovic, who has been one of the best midfielders in Serie A over the years.

Internationally, he has also been a key cog for the Croatian national team, helping them to a runners-up and third place finish in the consecutive World Cups.

Inter’s financial situation hasn’t improved, and they are open to selling players, including Brozovic, to balance the books.

The Croatian deep-lying playmaker has a contract running until 2026, and the Nerazzurri may ask for a sizable fee for his services.

Atletico also have Dani Ceballos on their list as a potential target, but the Spaniard is reportedly closing towards renewing his contract with Real Madrid.