By Chris Wright
Looks like you can expect an avalanche of speculative bull-honky for the next few weeks at the very least – Sergio Aguero, a player that was been linked with nearly all of Europe’s elite (and Tottenham) over the past five or six transfer windows has formally asked to be released from his contract at Atletico Madrid.
Speaking via his personal website, Aguero said:
“I said long ago that when I wanted to go, I would say so publicly. And the time has come. So I keep to my word and here I am. I find it hard to leave Atletico. It hurts and saddens me.
“I’ve thought long and hard and I am convinced that I must be true to myself. I do not think I put a ceiling on the ability to keep learning, to keep growing. After five intense years, this stage (Atletico) – for me personally – is over and I have to give way to a new one.
“I’m about to turn 23 and I have everything before me. Suffice it to say that this is not an economic issue but strictly a sporting one.
“So I want to clearly express my appreciation to the club for the efforts they have made for giving me a salary that equates with the largest clubs in the world.”
Aguero signed a new three-year contract extension with the Rojiblancos earlier this year, but included a couple of clauses that saw his buy-out value reduced from €52m to €40m and a stipulation that would allow him to leave the club this summer:
“I want to say also that this decision has been maturing for some time. The issue was discussed and agreed with Atlético last year when I was renewing my contract.
“I wanted to sign as a way to give back to the club for all the support they have given me. Had I not done so, they might not have received any more for my transfer. I received then a promise that the club would not stand in my way if I wanted to leave this summer.
“Therefore, in line with that commitment and my decision, I have asked them to listen to any offers they receive for me from different clubs.”
Impressively eloquent stuff. I’m sure no Atletico fans could begrudge him a move after five years of faithful service – especially considering the relatively middling season they’ve just endured.
So, the big question commeth – with Inter and Man City already said to be hovering, where do you think Kun is going to pitch up next season?