Cagliari are at risk of losing their long-time offensive linchpin Joao Pedro. Atlanta United has placed a lucrative bid for him and the club, and they are considering it. However, they need to close the deal in a hurry because the transfer market window ends in a week in MLS.
According to journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Atlanta United offered €10M to the Sardinians. Cagliari asked for €18M but could settle for slightly less. They expect a raise from the American club, which seems very determined, to eventually bankroll the search of a quality replacement.
Pedro is under contract until 2023 and is negotiating an extension. While the Rossoblù proposed €1.5M wages plus add-ons, The Five Stripes would give him a €3.5M salary. The will of the player will be a deciding factor, as always. His departure is indeed possible under the right circumstances, the transfer market added.
The Brazilian attacker has been of the Cagliari pillars since 2014, when he joined from Estoril Praia. Once an attacking midfielder, he progressively turned into a pure striker over the years. He bagged 34 goals and provided seven assists in 73 appearances in the last two seasons.
The 29-year-old forward often landed on the radar of some big clubs in the past. However, he has always preferred staying in Cagliari to having a smaller role elsewhere. Atalanta and PSG displayed interest in him in recent windows. He is now facing a pivotal decision given Atlanta United’s intense pursuit, but the clock is ticking to complete the operation.