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What's the story?
Paris St-Germain are all set to smash yet another world record with a player+cash deal for Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak in January, according to a report in Spanish news outlet, AS. The Ligue 1 giants are willing to obliterate the world record fee for a goalkeeper (held by Ederson of Manchester City), with a £60 million bid, in addition to offering the Rojiblancos the services of either Kevin Trapp or Javier Pastore in exchange. The hierarchy at the Parisian club are desperate for a top-class goalkeeper, with neither of Trapp or Alphonse Areola deemed as such. Oblak will arrive as a cup-tied player and will be unable to compete in the UEFA Champions League, but that is not viewed as an obstacle.
Also Read: Top 10 goalkeepers of the 2016/17 season
In case you didn't know...
Jan Oblak already has previous when it comes to record fees - the Slovenian became the most expensive goalkeeper in La Liga history when he left Benfica to join Atletico Madrid in 2014, with the Rojiblancos parting with €16 million for his services. Despite a bad start to his career in Spain, Oblak has gone from strength to strength, making 129 appearances in all competitions for the La Liga giants.
The heart of the matter
Atletico Madrid would be naturally reluctant to part with Jan Oblak in January - thus PSG may be forced to trigger the Slovenian's €100 million clause. However, the Ligue 1 giants are hoping that offering Javier Pastore may prove a trump card, as Diego Simeone is a huge fan of his fellow countryman, although the midfielder's high wages may prove to be a stumbling block.
Offering Kevin Trapp could also prove tempting, as the German is still a better option for Atletico than Miguel Angel Moya. The ideal scenario for Atletico would be if Oblak leaves for €100 million, and if they can pull off a move for Thibaut Courtois to return to the club, given that the Belgian has already spoken of his desire to return to Spain.
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Author's Take:
Jan Oblak has risen to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and at the age of 24, the world is his oyster. Paris St-Germain are assembling one of the finest teams in all of Europe, and Oblak would be the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle.
