Benfica goalkeeper Jan Oblak has passed a medical at the Vicente Calderon, and looks set to be unveiled as Atlético’s replacement stopper, ahead of Thibaut Courtois’ depature to Chelsea.
His name may not lend itself to any social media phenomenon (yet) – but Oblak is an outstanding young player – one that won’t come cheap.
The 6 foot plus Slovenian goalkeeper played 26 matches for the Portuguese champions Benfica last season, bagging 15 clean sheets in the process.
With a few international caps under his belt too, the 21 year old will start ahead of the recently signed Miguel Angel Moya and it is not hard to see why.
Oblak is one of the most exciting young talents in Europe and made the most of the chances given to him at Benfica, helping them win a Portugese treble and reach the Europa League final.
His performances not only earned him the Benfica’s best goalkeeper 2013/14 award, he was named the best keeper in the entire Portugese League this season
COPE journalist Antonio Ruiz has claimed that the Slovenian has passed a medical and the deal should be confirmed by both clubs soon.
Atleti were not the only suitors for Oblak, with Real Madrid also linked with the stopper.
Other keepers were also on Atleti’s radar included Keylor Navas and Guillermo Ochoa, who both enjoyed stand-out World Cups with Costa Rica and Mexico respectively. But it is Oblak has been chosen as the one to replace our beloved Thibaut.
The transfer itself will cost around €20m and it has been suggested that part of this sum will be funded by outside investors, which would allow Atletico to spend big on a striker.
Oblak is not quite on Courtois’ level yet – but he is also young at only 21 years old and will have time to develop.
With the news that Miranda looks to be staying put for now, he will have time to establish himself behind La Liga’s strongest defence.
An official announcement is expected soon.
What do you make of the Oblak capture? Did we need to buy two goalkeepers this summer?