Alexander Sorloth has reportedly informed Atletico Madrid of his wish to depart amid growing interest from Newcastle United.
Brought in last summer for about £30million, the Norwegian grew frustrated with inconsistent minutes during the campaign. Sorloth completed 90 minutes only twice in La Liga but still netted 20 goals – including the league’s quickest hat-trick against his old club Real Sociedad.
During his early spell at Crystal Palace, Sorloth failed to make an impression, though he has since developed into a prolific scorer around Europe. Approaching his 30th birthday in December, the Atletico striker has struck 66 goals in all competitions across the previous three years.
The Daily Mail report that Newcastle are monitoring Sorloth as they continue to search for striker solutions. Other options remain in play after talks for Yoane Wissa collapsed midweek, with Brentford rejecting another £40million approach.
It is worth noting, though, that Sorloth would be seen as a successor to Callum Wilson – rather than Alexander Isak. Eddie Howe made clear to reporters yesterday that Newcastle’s focus is solely on signing a backup centre-forward.
“We’re pushing hard to bring players in,” Howe said. “I wouldn’t describe us as close. There’s still time but it will move fast, as we know. Our squad is in a strong position overall, but we still need to replace Callum Wilson. That’s our main priority.”
Sorloth is said to have requested an exit after a “complete collapse” in his relationship with Diego Simeone. That is according to Spanish outlet ABC journalist Jose Ignacio Fernandez, who revealed the news on his YouTube channel.
He suggests Atletico would sanction a departure for the 29-year-old if they recover the outstanding transfer amount on their accounts. That figure is believed to be close to £25million – a fee Newcastle could comfortably afford.
