Atalanta to make Nikola Krstovic loan move permanent
Atalanta are set to trigger the option to sign striker Nikola Krstovic on a permanent deal from Portuguese side Sporting CP, according to multiple reports in Italy. The clause, believed to be set at around 15 million euros, will be activated following the player's recent run of form, securing his future at the Gewiss Stadium beyond the initial season-long loan.
The 24-year-old Montenegrin international, who started in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Juventus, has scored four goals in his last six Serie A appearances. His recent performances, including a decisive brace against Monza, have convinced the club's hierarchy and coach Raffaele Palladino that he represents a valuable long-term asset. The move is expected to be finalized officially in the coming weeks.
Krstovic arrived in Bergamo last summer after a prolific season with Portuguese club Sporting CP, where he netted 26 goals across all competitions. His adaptation to Italian football was gradual, but he has now firmly established himself as the primary central forward in Palladino's system, often operating ahead of attacking midfielders Charles De Ketelaere and Nicola Zalewski. His physical presence and improving link-up play have added a new dimension to La Dea's attack.
For Atalanta, securing Krstovic represents a significant piece of business as they plan for a future that likely includes European football next season. The club has a strong record of developing and profiting from strikers, and the relatively modest fee for a player of his age and potential aligns with their sustainable model. It also provides stability up front as they potentially prepare for offers for other key attackers this summer.
From the player's perspective, the permanent move offers security and the chance to build on his promising first campaign in one of Europe's top leagues. For Sporting CP, the transaction represents pure profit on a player who was not in their immediate plans, facilitating their own transfer market activities. The deal underscores Atalanta's effective scouting network and their ability to identify value in a competitive market, securing a crucial player without a protracted negotiation.
