Leon Goretzka and Atlético Madrid – it was more than just a loose rumour. In the winter, the FC Bayern midfielder was apparently on the verge of a move to the Rojiblancos. In the end, however, the 31-year-old decided against an immediate departure from Munich. It is now clear that there was more behind the refusal than just sporting loyalty
Goretzka’s decision to leave the record champions in the summer is now a foregone conclusion, with sporting director Christoph Freund openly confirming at the end of January that they would part ways at the end of his contract
Atlético showed transparency – but it didn’t fit
According to consistent media reports, Atlético Madrid were particularly specific. There was not only interest, but also talks and negotiations. The Spaniards are said to have clearly communicated both sporting prospects and financial conditions. According to the report, there was explicit transparency
Nevertheless, the club and player apparently failed to reach a common denominator. Differing ideas on contract details and the overall package made it difficult to reach an agreement. After the 3-0 win in Bremen, Goretzka himself commented on the transfer rumours and emphasised his decision to stay until the summer: „Even if such big clubs are courting me and there is interest, I have still made a clear commitment to FC Bayern. We simply have the feeling this season that anything is possible.“
This statement underlines the fact that the sporting appeal of a potential title chase in Munich played a role, but according to transfer insider Ekrem Konur, this was not the only reason for the rejection
Premier League apparently preferred destination
According to the report, Goretzka prefers a move to the Premier League and his advisors are said to be actively working on a future on the island. The English portal TEAMtalk reports that talks have been held with several top clubs in recent weeks, with the aim of sounding out interest early on for a transfer on a free transfer in the summer
According to the report, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, among others, have been contacted. Several clubs are said to have sent positive signals. Arsenal have been particularly concrete. On deadline day, there was even an official inquiry regarding Goretzka’s availability. Sporting director Andrea Berta sees him as an option for central midfield
There is also interest from outside England, with AC Milan and Olympique Marseille keeping a close eye on Goretzka’s development alongside Atlético, according to TEAMtalk.