Atlético Madrid are in deep crisis after Julián Álvarez’s admissions – but the situation could get even worse if another attacker disappears.
Read: Shock message from Julian Alvarez makes Atletico Madrid management hiss
Alexander Sørloth seems to be exacerbating the already difficult situation at Atlético Madrid, amid the chaos surrounding Julián Álvarez’s future. The Norwegian striker is considering a move to Juventus – a club that has been following him closely for months.
The timing could not have been worse for the red and whites. Álvarez’s possible departure has already set off alarm bells, and if Sørloth also disappears, Atlético will have to completely rebuild their attacking line – the attacking line that has, after all, carried a large part of the goal load in La Liga.
Alexander Sørloth – another hot potato for Atlético Madrid
The case surrounding Alexander Sørloth is far from trivial. The 30-year-old is under contract with the Madrid club and is coming off a season with 13 goals in LaLiga – an important contribution in a team that has struggled to find stability in attack.
His profile is still highly sought after in the market. At 195 centimetres, he is an air-dangerous striker, strong in the box and a classic target player that there are few of in the top clubs in Europe. That is precisely why Juventus see him as a very interesting option to strengthen their offensive line.
During the World Cup, the Norwegian was asked about the transfer speculation, but he gave a cautious answer without denying anything. The silence – far from calming tempers – has only created further uncertainty at the Metropolitano, where it is beginning to be realized that the summer could be far more turbulent than planned.
Juventus explore the market for a striker
Juventus are looking for a striker with the physicality, experience and ability to deliver from day one. In this context, Alexander Sørloth fits like a glove – both in terms of qualities and experience from top football in Spain, Germany, England and Turkey.
The Italian big club has not yet made a concrete offer, but the interest has been alive for several months. The old lady knows that Atlético may have to take action if uncertainty builds up in the attacking ranks – and the striker himself is showing signs of wanting to move on.
The big question is the price. Atlético paid a significant sum for the Norwegian after his strong spell at Villarreal, so accepting a lower bid makes little sense. But if a proper offer comes on the table – and the player himself pushes – the red and whites will have to listen.
Sørloth could become a Juventus player.
LaLiga could lose another high-profile striker
For LaLiga, a loss of Sørloth would be a major blow. The Norwegian has proven to be a striker who can turn games around on his own – especially good at crosses and when he gets the ball in the box. He doesn’t need many touches to create danger.
The problem for Atlético is twofold: On the one hand, they have to deal with the tension surrounding Julián Álvarez, on the other hand, they can’t afford for Alexander Sorloth to mentally resign from the project before the next season has even started.
Sørloth forces Atlético into action
Atlético must take a clear and quick action. Simeone cannot go into pre-season with both offensive hopes on the way out – it will weaken both the planning and the inner confidence of the squads.
Alexander Sørloth remains a valuable, competitive player with demand in the market. But if Juventus goes from exploratory talks to a concrete offer, the situation could suddenly escalate. Atlético Madrid already have plenty to contend with around Álvarez – now Sørloth is threatening to trigger another crisis at the Metropolitano.
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