According to Telegraph, Atletico Madrid are willing to offer Vitolo to sweeten the deal for top target Hector Bellerin. The Spanish giants are keen on signing a new right-back after Juanfran has announced his departure from the club and the Arsenal star has been identified as one of Diego Simeone’s primary targets.
However, the Spaniard is expected to cost a fortune, thanks to his long-term contract at the club. As a result, Atleti are looking to offer Vitolo as part of their player plus cash deal to secure the services of Bellerin this summer.
Vitolo’s struggles at Atleti
Vitolo initially joined Atletico Madrid back in 2017 in a hefty €36 million move from Sevilla. But, he was immediately shipped to UD Las Palmas in a short-term loan deal. He scored only one goal for the Canaries in nine matches and returned to Atleti at the end of the corresponding year.
After returning to Madrid, Vitolo has never quite been able to dethrone the likes of Antoine Griezmann or Angel Correa and struggled with lack of game-time. In fact, the Spaniard mustered a little over 700 minutes of league football this past season, during which he managed only one assist.
And despite the impending departure of star man Griezmann this summer, it’s unlikely the 29-year-old will play a prominent role at Atleti next season.
What can Vitolo bring to the table?
Vitolo can bring in a lot of experience, having made over 150 appearances in La Liga. He has also worked under Unai Emery during their time together at Sevilla, which could potentially help him integrate quickly into life in Emirates. As far as his style of play is concerned, the Atleti star is known for his technical prowess and ability to link up with his teammates in the final third. He can also nestle through tight spaces with his quick feet and excellent hold-up play. All in all, he is a proper winger.
Should Arsenal accept Atletico’s exchange deal?
Signing Vitolo could be a massive gamble for Arsenal given his struggles in recent years. And although the Spaniard can offer versatility and has worked under Emery in the past, he has done very little to warrant any interest from Arsenal’s part. It’s also unlikely he will be able to cope with the fast-paced nature of English football.
Besides, the Gunners can’t afford to lose Bellerin this summer. The 24-year-old is considered as one of the top right-backs in the league and his return to full fitness will be a huge boon for Emery next season. But in the meantime, Arsenal should focus on signing a replacement for Stephan Lichsteiner this summer.
