Atlético Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Memphis Depay as a potential replacement for João Félix, and have reportedly reached out to Barcelona to initiate negotiations for the transfer of the Dutch forward.
Depay, who joined Barcelona from Olympique Lyonnais in January 2020, has had a mixed tenure at the Catalan club, showing flashes of brilliance but also struggling for consistency.
Despite this, he has managed to score 14 goals and provided 8 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions for Barcelona.
The 26-year-old forward is well known for his versatility and ability to play as a center-forward, left-winger or an attacking midfielder. His impressive performances with Lyon prior to joining Barcelona had put him on the radar of top clubs across Europe.
Barcelona’s interest in Depay started when they were on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Luis Suarez and the Dutchman was identified as the ideal candidate to fill that role. However, he failed to make a significant impact at the club and his role with the team has been limited.
It remains to be seen how the negotiations between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona will play out, but the move would make sense for both clubs.
Atlético are in need of a replacement for João Félix, who has struggled for form in recent months, and Depay’s style of play would be well suited to the team’s counter-attacking philosophy.
On the other hand, with Barcelona seeking to rebuild their team following a disappointing season, offloading Depay would create some room in the wage cap.
Depay has a contract until June 2025, and It’s likely that Atlético will have to pay a transfer fee if they want to sign him, but with Memphis’s potential and his style of play fitting in perfectly with Diego Simeone’s system, the Madrid based side will hope to get the deal done soon.
This move could be a win-win situation for both the clubs and the player, as Depay will look to get more regular playing time and showcase his abilities on a big stage.
It is expected that direct contact between the two clubs will take place in the coming week, as both sides look to hammer out a deal for the transfer of the Dutch international.