Riquelme is Atletico target

Argentina ace could head back to Spain

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 20th July 2008

Riquelme

Riquelme: Attracting interest

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Atletico Madrid boss Javier Aguirre has revealed that he is keen on bringing Juan Roman Riquelme to the club.

The Primera Liga giants were thought to have been close to agreeing a deal for the Argentina international last summer, only for that transfer to fall through.

However, it would appear that they are willing to make a second approach as Aguirre admits that he is an admirer of the talented playmaker.

Riquelme is currently back in his homeland with Boca Juniors but has a wealth of experience in regards to life in Spain having spent six years in the country between 2002 and 2008, taking in spells at Barcelona and Villarreal.

Atletico are keen to piece together a squad capable of challenging in the UEFA Champions League next season, and Aguirre has made it clear that Riquelme possesses the necessary attributes to help the club in their mission.

Strengthen

"At the moment I know nothing on this topic, but he is the type of footballer we are looking for," he told Marca.

"Riquelme is more than just another name on the list we are interested in.

"I have asked for a footballer who can make that final pass, to make the difference.

"The transfer window is open until 31st August so we have time, but I am happy with the people who have arrived to strengthen the squad so far and I know that we will continue to work hard towards getting others in."