Top 5 possible destinations for Mauro Icardi
Mauro Icardi’s tenure with Paris Saint-Germain hasn’t gone as planned. The 29-year-old was supposed to be the long-term replacement for Edinson Cavani; nonetheless, after three seasons in the French capital, it didn’t materialise.
Over the January football transfer window, Icardi was rumoured to be on the move, but a deal for him didn’t occur. However, it won’t stop the capital club from finding another suitor in the summertime. Speculation has already begun over the 29-year-old forward’s next destination and there will surely be no shortage of interest for a talented player, in his prime years, who may be let off for a small transfer amount. Here are five clubs that could be in contention for Icardi’s signature –
#1 Juventus
Reports in Italy have claimed Massimiliano Allegri’s side is strongly considering the prospect of signing Icardi. With the official confirmation of Paolo Dybala’s exit this summer, it makes way for another forward and thus the former Inter Milan man would be an ideal replacement for the Bianconeri.
The forward could fill the gap left by his countryman at Juventus next term and will arrive without a hefty transfer fee. This works well for the Serie A outfit who struggled for goals last term. Apart from January recruit Dusan Vlahovic and Dybala himself, all have actually failed for the Serie A giants last season. And thus, it is believed Allegri’s side has earmarked Icardi and his PSG teammate, Angel Di Maria, as possible options to partner with the Serbian up front.
The Italian giants must target next year’s Serie A, while also preparing for the Champions League and Mauro Icardi would be instrumental in helping them achieve this. Meanwhile, Icardi has an inside knowledge of Serie A having spent eight years in the division with Sampdoria and Inter Milan. A move to Juventus could be the perfect move for Cavani.
#2 Atletico Madrid
Icardi can replace Luis Suarez in Atletico Madrid’s squad
Atletico was reportedly interested in striking a deal with Juventus last summer for Mauro Icardi, and although nothing materialised from those talks, the Spanish side could be set to make a direct approach for the forward ahead of next season.
He has all the qualities of a top striker. He is quick, strong, good in the air and is quite lethal with his finishing. And on top of that, he is never afraid of fighting for his team on the pitch.
With Luis Suarez’s contract set to expire this summer, Diego Simeone is expected to enter the market for a new centre-forward and the Argentine would certainly fit the bill. With Icardi being available, Simeone can certainly consider a move for his compatriot. Icardi is already accustomed to playing in a 4-4-2 system with PSG this season and can form a sensational attacking pair with European Golden Boy Joao Felix.
#3 Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham was close to securing a deal for Icardi last summer only for the player to reject the move. The Premier League club would surely be interested in having another crack at signing the 29-year-old – and for around €70 million ($76.9m) less than their first attempt.
Considering that Conte has only the option of Harry Kane as a natural centre-forward in his first-team squad, it is clear that the position is one in which the Italian must strengthen this summer if he is to really give Tottenham a chance of winning the league in the upcoming season.
#4 Liverpool
Liverpool has no choice but to look for their front three alternatives. With Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, and Mohamed Salah all being reported to have been considering seeking new pastures, Liverpool has to buy a new attacker. Liverpool already signed Diogo Jota last season, but the Reds need much more. And Mauro Icardi fits the profile, being relatively young and also coming cheap.
The Reds could opt to freshen up their forward line with some incomings and outgoings, and the PSG man would be a dream addition to this dynamic attack. Due to his heading ability and presence in the box, Icardi will certainly suit Conte’s playing style at Tottenham. So, it’ll hardly be surprising if the north London club launches the offensive on the Argentinian striker. An offer could be sent to PSG, who would also look to sell off the Argentine to make some room for new additions this summer.
#5 Inter Milan
Icardi has player for Inter for six seasons before leaving for PSG in 2019
Inter Milan are favourites to bring Icardi back to the club for a third spell, having been the platform that set the Argentine on his way to superstardom. According to Italian media reports, the 2020/21 Serie A champions are in pole position to sign the Argentine along with Juventus and are prepared to offer him a five-year contract.
It has also been reported that Icardi would prefer to return back to Italy if possible, so if Inter firms up their interest with an offer it could see them beat out competition from abroad. Inter’s Scudetto defence has faltered, however, they look set to be involved in next season’s Champions League and the potential arrival of Icardi would add some additional quality in attack.