Mario Mandzukic transfer latest: Arsenal target reportedly agrees move to Atletico Madrid

Bayern Munich man being brought in as Diego Costa's replacement

Charles Reynolds
Wednesday 09 July 2014 12:02 EDT
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Mario Mandzukic celebrates his first goal against Cameroon
Mario Mandzukic celebrates his first goal against Cameroon (GETTY IMAGES)

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Mario Mandzukic is on the verge of a £17.5m move to Atletico Madrid, according to reports.

German newspaper Bild report that the Croatian international is set to sign a five-year deal with the Spanish champions in a move from Bayern Munich.

Mandzukic has been at the Allianz Arena for two seasons, scoring 48 goals in 88 games, but was reportedly keen to move on following the club's acquisition of Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer.

The forward, who had reportedly caught the eye of several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, had made his intentions to leave the club very clear in an interview with a Croatian newspaper before the World Cup.

"I met (Bayern chairman) Karl Heinz Rummenigge before the (German) cup final and told him I wanted to leave the club," he said.

"I've had a fantastic time at Bayern. It's a great club and I never thought I'd want to leave, and especially not at this point in time.

"But, let's be honest, I cannot play to my strengths under Guardiola's style - no matter how hard I try.

"I realised that after the 1-0 defeat by Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final first leg and, that being the case, it's best for all parties that we go our separate ways.

"Guardiola is an outstanding coach and I wish him and everyone else at the club all the best in the future.

"Bayern and the club's fans will remain the best and most emotional chapter in my career."

Mandzukic was part of Croatia's World Cup squad in Brazil, scoring twice against Cameroon, but ultimately he could not help his side progress past the group stage.

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