Athletic Closing In On Deal For Alex Berenguer
Alex Berenguer will reportedly join Athletic before the transfer window closes (AS)
Going into the final week of the transfer window Athletic have ramped up their pursuit of Torino winger Alex Berenguer. The club opened negotiations with the Italians on Monday and all signs point to the two sides reaching an agreement before the market closes on 5 October. Barring any issues, Berenguer will make the move to San Mamés this summer.
Torino initially demanded €15 million for the 25-year-old but have since lowered their asking price. According to a report from Di Marzio, the two clubs have agreed to a deal that could rise to €12 million including variables with just a few smaller details left to decide. However, Alfonso Herrán of AS reports that Athletic are still unwilling to pay more than €8 million for the former Osasuna standout.
Despite the conflicting information over the transfer fee, several sources in Italy and Bizkaia concur that Athletic and Torino are very close to reaching an agreement. Berenguer has already agreed to personal terms with Athletic and is said to be excited about making the move to San Mamés. The winger is expected to sign a contract for at least four seasons that will include a wage increase to put him in the middle of the club’s salary structure.
If a deal is reached Berenguer will be an important addition to the Athletic squad. Capable of playing on the left wing and through the middle, Alex Berenguer brings creativity and the ability to score goals. Athletic and Torino have six days to finalize the transfer.