Monaco have announced the loan signing of Atletico Madrid winger Gelson Martins for the remainder of the season.
Martins, 23, only joined Diego Simeone’s side in the summer from Sporting CP, but has struggled for game time and has now relocated to the Stade Louis II.
Why has Martins joined Monaco? Five key things to know…
- Martins joined Atleti from Sporting CP last summer, signing a five-year deal.
- The Portuguese international has played a sporadic role this season and has been linked with a move away from the club this month.
- Newcastle were reportedly interested in a move for Martins.
- Monaco are in need of reinforcements with club currently 19th in Ligue 1.
- Thierry Henry was sacked last week with former coach Leonardo Jardim taking the helm.
Monaco have endured a chaotic season and have been keen to bolster their squad this winter window, with Cesc Fabregas joining from Chelsea earlier this month.
Martins is now the second high-profile player to join Les Monegasques, who sit just a point above the foot of the French top-flight, losing 2-0 to Dijon on the weekend.
Vice President of AS Monaco, Vadim Vasilyev, spoke of his delight in acquiring the services of Martins, praising his attacking ability and fast style of play.
Speaking to the club’s official website, he said: “Welcome to Gelson Martins.
AS Monaco is delighted to announce the arrival of Gelson Martins on loan from Atlético Madrid until the end of the season.#WelcomeToMonaco
pic.twitter.com/pXUHzYJB7R
— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) January 27, 2019
“Gelson is a fast attacking midfielder who has shown great things in the Sporting jersey and who will be able to bring to the squad all his speed and his attacking abilities.”
Martins also announced his excitement towards joining the club, expressing his eagerness to get back on the pitch and demonstrate his ability.
He said: “I am very happy to arrive at AS Monaco. I cannot wait to get back on the field with my new teammates and do my best to help the team.”
Newcastle miss out
The Magpies were reportedly eager to secure the signature of Martins who was sitting on the periphery of first-team action in the Spanish capital.
It is believed that Rafa Benitez made enquiries regarding the availability of the 21-time Portugal international, but has now missed out on another January transfer target.
The Spanish tactician has been keen to add attacking quality to his side who are currently lurking just two points outside the relegation zone in the Premier League, sitting in 17th place.
Jordan Lukaku was set to join the club, and even travelled to Tyneside for a medical, but his transfer from Lazio took a dramatic u-turn and the Belgian has since returned to Rome.
The post Monaco sign Atletico Madrid winger Gelson Martins on loan appeared first on Squawka News.
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