Juventus, AS Roma interested in Atletico Madrid defender valued at €35-40 million | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid are forecasting major changes in the upcoming January transfer window as they look to trim their squad following the shock elimination from the UEFA Champions League.

Argentine international Rodrigo de Paul is already tipped to leave Atletico Madrid after the end of the FIFA World Cup. But according to Mundo Deportivo, another star player in the form of Jose Maria Gimenez is facing an uncertain future at the club.

One of the longest-serving players in the current setup, Gimenez had been a part of Atletico Madrid since 2013. He has featured in over260 matches for the club, becoming a vital asset at the back, especially after the departures of Joao Miranda and Diego Godin.

However, Gimenez’s spell at Atleti could soon come to an end, with Juventus and AS Roma among the clubs interested in his services.

The report suggests Roma coach Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer of Gimenez, who is known for his aggression and physically robust style of play. The Portuguese mastermind, therefore, wants him as part of his defensive setup at Stadio Olimpico.

Atletico Madrid themselves are believed to be open to a sale for Gimenez in the January transfer window. The Uruguayan international, though, could cost a fortune, with the club valuing him at around €35-40 million.

Such a figure could prove to be challenging for Roma and Juventus, both of whom have been experiencing economic difficulties. But as the clubs look to recover from disappointing starts to the season, they may fancy splurging on a defensive star like Gimenez, who has what it takes to perform at the highest level of football.