Atleti eye up Hysaj as Semedo alternative

Barcelona seem to be unwilling to let Semedo go. Valverde is counting on the Portuguese right-back for next season, and has now told Atlético as much.

After this development, Atleti have been searching for other possible names to fill the spot. One in particular is Napoli defender Elseid Hysaj.

In fact, 'Los Colchoneros' are now the only side interested in the full-back, with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis' asking price reportedly scaring off all other interested suitors.

Italian newspaper 'Il Roma' has reported that the 40 million Euro price tag that Napoli originally slapped on the Albanian has now reduced to 20 million.

Atleti, however, are looking to bring his price down to 18 million Euros. Knowing that the player wants a move to the Spanish capital, they are not willing to shell out more than that amount.

In any case, Atlético's preference remains Semedo. Only if they can't convince Barça to sell the full-back will they move for Hysaj.