Atletico close on Nico Gaitan

Atletico Madrid are stepping up their efforts to sign Argentine winger Nicolas Gaitan from Benfica, O Jogo understands.

Los Colchoneros have already signed Mario Mandzukic from Bayern Munich, but they are in need of additional attacking reinforcements after Diego Ribas, Diego Costa and David Villa all left.

According to O Jogo, Atletico Madrid are hot on the trail of Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan, who could easily become their second marque signing of the summer.

Namely, los Colchoneros have submitted an official proposal for the player’s services worth €25 million, while Benfica are holding out for €30 million.

The two sides are also in talks over goalkeeper Jan Oblak that could see the Slovenian move to Vicente Calderon and Joshua Guilavogui in the opposite direction.

Nicolas Gaitan, 26, who scored 17 goals in 100 league appearances for Benfica, is almost certain to leave the Eagles this summer, with the club hoping to sell him to the highest bidder.