Atletico Madrid ‘expect’ to lose Jan Oblak to Arsenal or Liverpool in the summer window, and are already planning for his exit, according to reports.

1Jan Oblak

Jan Oblak during the UEFA Champions League match between FC Bayern Muenchen and Club Atletico de Madrid at Allianz Arena on December 6, 2016 in Munich, Bavaria.
Jan Oblak

The Daily Star report that Atletico are “preparing to receive big money offers” from the Premier League teams. They’re “convinced that either Liverpool or Arsenal will come calling with an offer that they cannot refuse”.

The Star’s report originally comes from El Gol Digital. The Spanish outlet claims the two clubs are the leading contenders for the player. They also claim Atletico are already preparing to activate the release clause of Kepa Arrizabalaga, as a replacement.

The big issue with the story is that Oblak’s release clause is €100m (£87.9m). That’s way above what I’d expect Arsenal to spend on one player this summer. I’d very much doubt Liverpool would be willing to pay it either. They’ve already spent £75m on Virgil Van Dijk, £54m on Naby Keita and £40.5m on Fabinho this year.

If neither club are willing to pay the release clause, I don’t see why Atletico would let Oblak leave. He has a contract until 2021, and is one of the stars of their team.

Undoubtedly, Liverpool and Arsenal both need a goalkeeper. Loris Karius seemed to be hitting his stride towards the end of last season, then made two dreadful errors in the Champions League final. Arsenal have struggled with Petr Cech and David Ospina all campaign long.

I’d guess they’ll both end up going for someone cheaper though.

For the other goalkeeping options on Mislintat’s shortlist this summer, click ‘Next’

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