Dutch midfielder set to join Atletico Madrid amid Premier League and Barcelona interest – report
Feyenoord midfielder Mats Wieffer looks set to have his choice of options this summer as the Dutchman prepares for a move abroad. After making his name at De Kuip, Wieffer has serious interest from Spain and England.
The 24-year-old was on the agenda of several Premier League teams during the January transfer window, including Liverpool. Barcelona is Atletico Madrid had also shown interest in the Dutchman, although Los Rojiblancos were the only ones to open discussions with Feyenoord.
🚨 Liverpool have not ruled out Mats Wieffer entirely; they are looking for a “physical presence” in the midfield. Despite being very satisfied with Wataru Endō, a move for the Dutchman could be on the table if the terms are favorable.
➡️ It is not considered a priority by @LFCbut it's on… pic.twitter.com/ToWI2fejqy
— François Plateau (@francoisplateau) January 22, 2024
Now Atleti Universe say that Wieffer was willing to join Atletico this winter, but Feyenoord scuppered the deal because they didn't want to sell in January. Wieffer will make a decision on his future in the summer.
❗️ Excl: Mats Wieffer was open to the opportunity to join Atlético Madrid this winter, but Feyenoord did not want him to leave.
Several Premier League clubs have expressed interest in him, and Barcelona is also there. He will make a decision on his future in the summer. pic.twitter.com/TqE9yLY7eH
— Atlético Universe (@atletiuniverse) February 6, 2024
This contrasts with previous reports coming from the Netherlands, which said that Wieffer was keen to stay and see out the season in Rotterdam, as he did not want to jeopardize his place at the Euros with the Netherlands.
❗️🇳🇱 Atletico Madrid were willing to go “very far” for Mats Wieffer this winter, but the player wanted to stay at Feyenoord because of the Euros.
(@VI_nl away @KuipTalk) pic.twitter.com/5BmFrRONPr
— Atlético Universe (@atletiuniverse) February 6, 2024
Wieffer he joined Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong under Ronald Koeman, and the opportunity to join the pair at club level may appeal to the Director Sporting Deco. It appeared that one of Barcelona's top two targets will be a midfielder for this summer. Atletico Madrid spent more than €20 million on Arthur Vermeeren in January, but there was talk of signing two midfielders. Vermeeren was signed with an eye on the future, while Wieffer would be a signing for immediate performance. Leave two of Marcos Llorente, Rodrigo de Paul, Pablo Barrios or Koke Resurreccion out of position or on the bench if Wieffer arrived as a starter.
