Atletico Madrid prioritise move for Marcus Thuram in the summer

Atletico Madrid have identified Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram as their top attacking target for the summer, according to Marca.

Thuram courted interest from plenty of Europe’s top clubs during the winter transfer window, including Los Rojiblancos.

With a contract due at the end of the season, the Foals demanded around €15 million for the Frenchman, which Atletico were reluctant to pay.

Thuram, who was part of Didier Deschamps’ 2022 World Cup squad, is widely expected to leave Gladbach in the summer for free, with Los Rojiblancos looking to pounce.

Atletico’s erratic campaign this season could lead to a squad overhaul in the summer. There would be much need for attacking reinforcements, with Matheus Cunha leaving for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Joao Felix for Chelsea (on loan) in January.

Memphis Depay moved to Wanda Metropolitano from Barcelona as the only signing of the January window, with Atletico paying a measly transfer fee of around €4m.

However, there have been reports already of Simeone unhappy with the Dutchman’s fitness, which has raised a lot of uncertainties over his future just a few weeks after his arrival.

Thuram would be a massive signing for Atletico, given his excellent goal-scoring consistency in Bundesliga this season.

The report also adds that Colchoneros are counting on fellow Frenchman Antoine Griezmann to persuade Thuram to move to Wanda Metropolitano.

Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur could provide tough competition for Atletico in Thuram’s pursuit.

Atletico also have Getafe striker Enes Unal and Borja Igelesias of Real Betis on their radar.