Atalanta are set to make Genk defender Joakim Maehle their first January signing, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The right-back will aim to be the man to fill the slot on that side of the pitch. The Serie A side have struggled to find a replacement for Timothy Castagne who left for Leicester City in the summer transfer window.
According to Di Marzio, Atalanta will pay £10 million to Genk for the talented Dane. That deal includes bonuses and Maehle will play his final game for Genk this weekend before flying to Italy to finalise the move.
Joakim Maehle Set to Become Atalanta’s First January Signing
Impressive Performances in Belgium
Maehle is a dynamic, talented, young full-back who isn’t afraid to get forward and certainly would fit Gianpiero Gasperini’s style of play.
Maehle has impressed for Genk this season. He has started every league game, scoring once and assisting a further three. His displays have caught the eye of Atalanta who are fighting in several competitions this season. They have progressed into the knockout stages of the Champions League as well as still being involved in a fascinating Serie A title race.
The 23-year-old has also caught the eye of the Denmark national side. Maehle has six caps for his country and a move to Serie A offers the chance to impress further. He has been one of the standout players in the Belgian Jupiler League this season and certainly he will ready for that step up in quality.
Atalanta have struggled to replace Castagne this season, with Hans Hateboer and Cristiano Piccini alternating the role throughout the different competitions. With Piccini only on loan, Gasperini has clearly targeted a permanent acquisition who can slot into the side in the future. Maehle’s arrival would throw doubt on the futures of both Piccini and Hateboer.
Maehle will be the first arrival in what could be a crucial transfer window for the Bergamo side. Alejandro Gomez’s future will be the big topic of discussion after his spat with Gasperini. He has been their star man for several seasons but his future is up in the air.
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