Nicolas Jackson's rocket fires Chelsea to crucial victory over Everton
Chelsea secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Everton at Stamford Bridge, with Nicolas Jackson's first-half strike proving the difference in a tense Premier League clash.
The Slovenian, widely regarded as one of the world's elite shot-stoppers, could be at the center of a major transfer shake-up in 2025.
Oblak, 32, has been a cornerstone for Atletico since joining from Benfica in 2014 for 13 million euros. At his peak in 2020, his valuation soared to 100 million euros, reflecting his status as a top-tier talent.
However, recent reports from Spain suggest Atletico are prepared to move on, citing a dip in form and the burden of his 340,000 euros-per-week salary, the highest in their squad. "Oblak has not been at his best for some time," a source close to the club said, adding that his contract, which runs until 2028, will not block a potential exit.
Diego Simeone, Atletico's head coach, has reportedly lost faith in Oblak, fueling speculation about his future. "Simeone has begun planning for life after Oblak," the report noted, with the club valuing the goalkeeper at around 25 million euros.
Alongside United, Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and several Saudi Pro League clubs have shown interest, drawn by Oblak's proven track record.
For United, the move signals a bold response to Andre Onana's inconsistent performances since his 2023 arrival from Inter. Onana himself revealed earlier this year that he had attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Atletico, Chelsea, and Arsenal, before choosing United.
"I had Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea, Arsenal," Onana said, reflecting on his Ajax days. Despite his confidence, United's manager, Ruben Amorim, appears keen to upgrade, with Oblak a prime target.
Atletico, meanwhile, have already identified potential successors. Espanyol's Joan Garcia, 23, has emerged as their top choice, though Chelsea's Kepa Arrizabalaga and AC Milan's Mike Maignan are also under consideration.
Garcia, who nearly joined Arsenal last summer, has a release clause of 30 million euros and has impressed in La Liga. Atletico's interest could complicate Arsenal's plans, as the Gunners remain keen on the young keeper.
United are not solely focused on Oblak. Burnley's James Trafford and Parma's Zion Suzuki are among other options being evaluated, offering younger, long-term alternatives.
However, landing Oblak would be a statement of intent, potentially disrupting rivals Arsenal's transfer strategy while bolstering United's backline.
As the transfer window approaches, Oblak's future remains uncertain, but the prospect of a move to Old Trafford has ignited excitement among fans.
With Atletico open to offers and United ready to pounce, the goalkeeping market is set for a dramatic shift.