Colombia striker Radamel Falcao will be leaving Atletico Madrid this summer.
According to analyst Giullem Balague, the club made an official announcement Monday that their central superstar would depart this summer.
Atletico's general manager Miguel Angel Gil Marin said Monday, "Before the start of the season we talked with Falcao and we promised him 'if you help us to reach the Champions League next season, Atletico will help you.'"
He added, "Every decision he will take, Atletico will be with him."
Chelsea and Monaco have been rumored destinations for the striker. Monaco was a hot topic of late and was expected to swoop in and steal Falcao from other prospective suitors. However, Manchester City seems to have upped the ante with a 54 million pound offer for the 27-year old. UK publication The Mirror reports that the deal is done and that Falcao will be new manager Manuel Pellegrini's first signing as Manchester City manager. Falcao has apparently stated a desire to play for the Chilean manager.
The Mirror also reports that Falcao's decision to sign with Manchester City has to do with Fernando Torres. The Chelsea striker previously noted that he welcomed the competition with Falcao should the Colombian arrive at Stamford Bridge. However, Torres is one of owner Roman Abramovich's favored players, making Falcao's chances at securing a top spot more difficult.
The arrival in City likely spells the end for Carlos Tevez in Manchester; Edin Dzeko is also expected to leave the Ethiad Stadium this offseason.
Falcao has scored 28 goals this season in the Spanish league; he is third only to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Colombian arrived in Madrid back in 2011-12 and led the club to its second ever Europa League title with a tournament-leading 12 goals. This season Falcao led Atletico Madrid to a Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid; he had a crucial assist on his team's first goal.
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