Lille have officially completed the signing of Ivo Grbic on loan from Atletico Madrid. The goalkeeper arrives in Lille as a potential replacement for Mike Maignan, who left the club for AC Milan early in the transfer window.
Ivo Grbic Signs for Lille
A Push for Starting Spot on the Cards for Ivo Grbic
Ivo Grbic has moved to Lille on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy from Atletico Madrid. The exact details of the transfer have not been disclosed but the deal will reportedly see Lille have an option to buy the midfielder for €7 million, along with a 20% resale clause for Atletico Madrid.
The Croatian joins the reigning French champions after spending the last year as the backup to Jan Oblak. Ivo Grbic joined Atletico Madrid from Lokomotiv Moscow last season. The Croatian rarely featured for Diego Simeone’s side the previous season, making just one appearance for the club.
In Lille, Grbic will have the opportunity to push for a starting spot following the departure of Mike Maignan. Lille have started the season with Leo Jardim as their starting goalkeeper, who has looked vulnerable in goal. The Brazilian has conceded seven goals in the opening two league matches for French champions.
What Was Said?
Speaking to the club’s website, Ivo Grbic said: “I am very happy to join LOSC and thank the club for the welcome I received. It’s a great opportunity for me. I intend to give it my all on the pitch to help the team this season.”
Lille CEO, Olivier Letang, also expressed his delight in signing the goalkeeper: “We are delighted to welcome Ivo Grbić to LOSC. After a rich experience in a great club and alongside a great goalkeeper, Ivo now has the necessary maturity, as well as all the qualities specific to his position, to take on even more responsibilities. I am happy that he chose LOSC for this, confident that he will have a good season and bring all his skills to a quality squad.”
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