Atlético-MG is moving to reinforce the squad for 2026. With the drop in the team’s production in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, coach Jorge Sampaoli suggested investigating some names, with emphasis on two: Gerson, from Zenit, and Claudinho, from Al-Sadd.
According to Itatiaia’s investigation, at least four players nominated by the Argentine coach had their representatives approached so that the club could understand values, conditions and possible negotiation scenarios.
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Will Gerson and Claudinho return to Brazilian football?
Despite the interest, the Galo board recognizes that bringing at least one of these athletes back to the country is seen as a challenge. This is because the clubs that hold the rights stipulate values of around 20 million euros (around R$124 million), a level considered far above what Atlético can invest at the moment.
Thus, negotiations continue only in the field of surveys, without concrete developments. The internal analysis is that, even with the desire to serve Sampaoli, the club needs to balance decisions.
Most viable option for Atlético-MG
In addition to the first options, center forward Germán Berterame, an Argentine naturalized Mexican and Monterrey standout, also entered Atletica’s radar. The board has already carried out an initial survey and considers the player a more affordable alternative than Gerson and Claudinho.
Even though it is a less expensive possibility, hiring is still treated with caution. There are no open negotiations and the scenario remains in the preliminary phase.
Also according to Itatiaia, in addition to reinforcements for midfield and attack, Sampaoli also requested the arrival of a full-back, whose name has not yet been revealed.
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