Atletico Madrid are making progress in their efforts to sign Uruguay's rising star Matias Arezo.
The 18-year-old striker has been labeledd "the new Luis Suarez" and has caught the attention of several top teams in Europe.
The Spanish side are leading the race to land Matias Arezo from Uruguayan side River Plate as they continue to plan for the long-term future.
Atletico close to deal for Matias Arezo
Atletico are in advanced talks over a deal for the Uruguay Under 23 international.
The Rojiblancos hope to seal the signing of the attacker for around €12 million to take a majority stake in the player's economic rights.
If Atletico manage to wrap up the transfer, they will loan Matias Arezo to River Plate's domestic rivals Penarol until July, when he will join up with Diego Simeone's team to prepare for the new season.
Who is Matias Arezo?
Matias Arezo has scored four goals in 14 games for River Plate since January.
He made his senior league debut for River Plate at the age of 15 and has already made 62 appearances in all competitions, scoring 21 times.
His contract with River Plate runs until December 2022.
Atleti still fishing in South American waters
Matias Arezo looks set to be the second young South American star to join Atletico this summer.
They have already have an agreement in place to bring 20-year-old Brazilian forward Marcos Paulo to the Spanish capital from Fluminense at the end of the season.
Barring a shock development, the Portugal Under 19 international will join on a five-year deal in July.
Further reading
- Ballon d'Or 2021 Power Rankings: Mbappe tightens his grip
- Real Madrid's Militao considering summer transfer
- PSG snubbed €300m Neymar offer from Real - agent
