Atalanta standout Duvan Zapata attracting interest from Atletico Madrid
By Quinn Allen
Duvan Zapata has risen to prominence over the last few seasons for a high-flying Atalanta side
It was only a matter of time until Atalanta’s vibrant frontline began to attract the interest of other clubs across Europe. With the January transfer window just about two months away, Atletico Madrid is already looking to strengthen their attack even more after adding Luis Suarez from Barcelona in the summer.
According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Diego Simeone is keen on bringing in Atalanta star Duvan Zapata to partner with Suarez up top in Madrid. Atletico is off to a solid start in La Liga, going unbeaten so far while scoring 13 goals in six games. But, Zapata would undoubtedly give them even more firepower in the final third. The Colombian scored 18 Serie A goals last season and has already netted five times in eight matches across all competitions this term.
At 29-years old, Zapata has developed later than most players, but it’s hard to ignore his productivity in front of goal. He’s a physical, quick, natural-born finisher who has proven to be a vital part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s side across the last few seasons. Diego Costa’s form has taken a massive dip in recent memory, so it’s clear that Simeone wants to potentially replace him with Zapata.
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Since initially joining Atalanta on loan from Napoli in 2018, Zapata has scored 52 times in 88 appearances for the club. They also won’t let him go for anything less than 50 million euros, which Atletico isn’t willing to currently pay. But, once January rolls around, things could change.
Duvan Zapata is on contract at the Gewiss Stadium until 2023. He was once again at the forefront for Atalanta mid-week against Ajax, scoring a second-half brace to give them a crucial point in the group stage of the Champions League. Zapata also garnered interest from Serie A champions Juventus in the summer, but nothing materialized.
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It would be a shame for Atalanta to lose such a crucial player. However, at this point, it’s just interest and they’ve made it clear they won’t let Zapata go for any small amount. Bigger deals usually fail to materialize in the January transfer window so if anything, it seems more realistic that Zapata could take his talents to a more high-profile club next summer.