Not Alvarez! Barcelona want to sign Atletico star on a free transfer
Barcelona have turned their attention to another major name from Atletico Madrid.
Details: According to insider Ekrem Konur, Barcelona are monitoring the situation of 31-year-old Marcos Llorente and could attempt to sign the midfielder as a free agent next summer. The Spaniard's current deal with Atletico Madrid runs until June 30, 2027. Atletico, however, are already working on keeping one of their most experienced players and remain confident that renewal talks can lead to a new agreement.
Barcelona are not the only European giants keeping a close eye on developments. Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are also monitoring Llorente's contract situation, while Bayern Munich have been linked with the versatile Spaniard as well. If no extension is agreed, the midfielder would be able to leave Atletico without a transfer fee when his current contract expires.
Llorente's versatility is one of the factors attracting such significant interest. Atletico officially list him as a midfielder, but the Spaniard has operated in several roles during his career, including central midfield, defensive midfield and on the right flank. That tactical flexibility has made him an important figure in Diego Simeone's squad.
It's worth noting that Llorente has represented Atletico Madrid since joining from Real Madrid in 2019. During his time with the club, he helped the Colchoneros win the 2020/21 LaLiga title.
Reminder: Stunning U-turn! Atletico ready to sell Alvarez to Barcelona in January
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
