Atlético Madrid have announced the signing of Croatia international full-back Sime Vrsaljko from Serie A outfit Sassuolo.
Five-year deal
The 24-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with Los Rojiblancos, arriving at the Vicente Calderón for 16 million euros plus a further two million in add-ons.
Vrsaljko, who is currently on holiday after featuring for his national side at the European Championships, is viewed as a long-term successor to regular Atlético right-back Juanfran.
NEW SIGNING. Vrsaljko signs for 5 seasons! Atléticos, let’s welcome him! https://t.co/N2hASN19SM #WelcomeVrsaljko pic.twitter.com/2CK3XEk9YB
— Atleti English (@atletienglish) 5 July 2016
Versatile
However, he can also play at left-back - as he did in Croatia's group-stage win over Spain at Euro 2016 - meaning he gives coach Diego Simeone an alternative to Filipe Luis.
The player will join up with Simeone's first-team squad later this month.
FIRST WORDS AS AN ATLÉTICO. Vrsaljko: "Playing in Atlético is a big challenge for me, I’m very happy" #WelcomeVrsaljko
— Atleti English (@atletienglish) 5 July 2016
Second summer signing
Sporting director José Luis Pérez Caminero said: "Vrsaljko is a player with a huge projection, although he has already demonstrated his quality in a championship as competitive as the Italian Serie A.
"It perfectly fulfils our idea of incorporating players who increase the competition within the group and our team’s level. He is very versatile, since he can play in both sides."
Vrsaljko (right) featured in Croatia's Euro 2016 win over Spain.
Vrsaljko is Atleti's second close-season capture after Benfica's Nicolás Gaitán, while the capital club are also due to confirm a deal for young Portuguese winger Diogo Jota.
