Atletico Madrid are looking to beat Chelsea to the punch off the pitch as they target Palmeiras midfielder Gabriel Menino ahead of the second leg in the Champions League knockout stages at Stamford Bridge.
As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Atletico Madrid are closely following Gabriel Menino. The 20-year old played a significant role in aiding Palmeiras to win the treble last season including the Copa Libertadores, the Copa do Brasil and the Sao Paulo State Championship, it comes as no surprise that Menino is also on the radar of Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea.
Gabriel Menino Reported Target for Atletico Madrid
A Self-Proclaimed Yaya Toure and Dani Alves
The Brazilian midfielder has earned himself a lot of praise in his home nation. This led to a call-up to Brazil’s senior national team for the World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay in November. Unfortunately, having tested positive for COVID-19, the youngster was forced to withdraw from the squad.
In fact, Menino has been compared to Brazilian great Dani Alves, with questions being asked if Menino could be the latter’s successor. Having played at right-back on occasion, his supporters in South America have seen similar traits between the two. The Palmeiras man, however, compares himself to former Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure.
Where Does He Fit Into Atletico Madrid’s Team?
Diego Simeone has undoubtedly been drawn to Gabriel Menino’s versatility. Very rarely can a young prospect be compared to a dynamic full-back such as Dani Alves in one position, whilst also being compared to powerful midfielder Yaya Toure. This signifies how well-rounded Menino is as a footballer, which is a tool that can be deployed effectively by Simeone.
Having played multiple different players at right-back over the course of the season, including attack-minded Marcos Llorente. Simeone will be glad to have suitable cover in right-back as well as a replacement for loanee Lucas Torreira; who will inevitably end up back at his parent club Arsenal.
Where Will Menino End Up?
Having two Champions League clubs chasing your signature is, what they call, a good problem to have. In Atlético Madrid, you have a club that has a reputation for developing younger players, especially from South America. A passionate manager in Diego Simeone who deploys a defensive system, which could suit Menino.
On the other hand, Chelsea provides the lure of Premier League football, which in turn allows the club to offer higher wages. Chelsea also has a better history of winning titles, which comes as nothing new for Menino.
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