Duván Zapata’s 78 goals and 35 assists at Atalanta have made him a historic player for the institution that is experiencing one of its best periods. The leadership is clear about the importance of having a striker like the Colombian who, at 30 years old, is still essential for Gasperini, hence the decision to reject Newcastle’s one-year loan offer with a purchase option for the striker.
The English had Duván as an alternative since the priority for Howe is the Uruguayan Darwin Núñez, but the negotiation could only take place with Benfica until the end of the season, That is why the urgency of going out to look for a striker and the one from Atalanta was the best option. Newcastle offered Atalanta a one-year loan with a purchase option for Zapata at a value close to 30 million euros, a figure that did not convince those from Bergamo.
“Newcastle in these hours has made a lot of effort for Duvan Zapata, but the offer of 5 million plus 26 redemption was rejected”journalist Gianluca Di Marzio told Sky Sport. The report adds that Atalanta would be willing to listen to a new offer if it significantly improves the proposals of the English who for now have the German Robin Gosens almost ready.
Zapata’s contract with Atalanta is signed until 2023 and according to transfermarkt the striker is valued at 33 million euros. The figure offered by Newcastle was close to its current value, but for the leadership it was not a convenient negotiation. The Colombian continues to recover from the injury he suffered at the end of December.
