Atletico Madrid has rushed to capture one of Spain’s budding prospects, paying a large fee for a teenager with no senior games. Elche has announced that Atletico Madrid has activated the release clause for under-19s standout Daniel Fitzgerald.
The 17-year-old, who holds both Spanish and English citizenship, signed his first professional contract last year and made his debut this season with Elche’s B team, Elche Ilicitano, which competes in Spain’s fourth tier. In his first appearance, he came on up front for the final 14 minutes of their match against Andratx, scoring a fifth goal in a 5-0 victory.
Atletico Madrid pay Fitzgerald’s release clause.
Despite their best efforts to keep Fitzgerald’s adolescent potential, the Valencian club has revealed that Atletico has paid his €150,000 release clause. According to Diario AS, Elche has given him a new contract with the prospect of playing senior football for the freshly promoted La Liga club in the near future. He will, however, sign a three-year contract with Atletico and join the club’s under-19 squad. He is already accustomed with this level, having advanced fast through the ranks at Elche.
Comparisons to Alex Baena
Los Colchoneros have been widely connected with Villarreal playmaker Alex Baena this summer, and the Madrid-based newspaper claims Fitzgerald has attracted similarities to the Spain international. Although he can play across the forward line, he excels behind the forwards and is known for his ability to make the key pass.
Fitzgerald must impress. Fernando Torres & Diego Simeone
Fitzgerald will face a difficult battle in breaking into Atletico’s senior team in the following years, with Pablo Barrios being the only prominent addition to the first team since Koke Resurreccion and Saul Niguez. If he shines at the under-19 level, Fernando Torres, who is in charge of the B squad, will examine his suitability for senior football before recommending him to Diego Simeone.
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