Teun Koopmeiners is set to depart Atalanta in the upcoming summer transfer window, sparking interest from Juventus and Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester United. While the Dutch midfielder’s destination remains uncertain, Atalanta are already in pursuit of his replacement. The Bergamo-based club has identified two potential targets to bolster their midfield ahead of the new season.
According to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport (via Calciomercato), Atalanta has set its sights on two midfield talents as potential successors to Koopmeiners. One of the targets is Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada from Lazio.
The 27-year-old is currently under contract with Lazio until the summer with an option for renewal for an additional three years. The other prospect is French-Algerian midfielder Rayan Cherki from Lyon. Cherki, born in 2003, is set to become a free agent in June 2025.
While Kamada’s season at Lazio has been lackluster so far, the appointment of new coach Tudor could potentially revitalize his career. On the other hand, Jordan James and Rayan Cherki have been enjoying more positive spells. James, the Welsh midfielder from Birmingham, has scored eight goals in the Championship, showcasing his attacking prowess. Cherki, the Franco-Algerian talent from Lyon, has contributed three goals and five assists in Ligue 1, demonstrating his versatility and creativity in midfield.
