Memphis Depay targeted by city rivals in potential shock move after Atletico Madrid exit

Memphis Depay decided to rescind his contract early with Atletico Madrid, with his place under Diego Simeone in major doubt. That came ahead of Euro 2024, but since, Memphis has not found a team, with relatively little in terms of talk of his next destination.

A shock move would be if he were to go across the city of Madrid to Rayo Vallecano. After sealing a deal to bring in James Rodriguez on a free on Monday, Rayo President Raul Martin Presa is now working on a deal to bring in Memphis.

That is reported by Relevo, who say that Raul de Tomas’ exit could be key to any deal. They are looking to bring in at least €5.5m for de Tomas, which would cover his remaining salary and transer ammortisation, and are searching for a destination for him in Asia. Even if that move does not come off, Presa will still try to find a way for Memphis.

The 30-year-old is happy in the Spanish capital, where he has been training all summer, and that works in Rayo’s favour when it comes to getting a deal done.

The Dutch international would certainly be a flashy signing for Rayo, and perhaps a source of goals, with the Vallecanos severely lacking in clinical finishing last season. However Memphis has struggled to stay on the pitch in recent years, which could be a major consideration. As of yet, few other destinations have been mentioned for Memphis.

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