Atletico Madrid keep tabs on Hoffenheim striker Tim Lemperle

Florian Plettenberg reports that Atletico Madrid are keeping close tabs on TSG 1899 Hoffenheim striker Tim Lemperle. Since moving to Hoffenheim from Köln this summer, Lemperle has scored four goals and registered two assists for his new Bundesliga outfit. The former Germany U21 international has raised his estimated market value from €5m to €8m.

Lemperle quickly established himself as an important component in TSG head coach Christian Ilzer’s attack this summerand often features in a highly effective triplicate striker set alongside fellow German Fisnik Asllani and Cote d’Ivoire international Bazoumana Touré. Sky nevertheless notes that – unlike Asllani – Lemperle does not have a release clause in his current contract.

Asllani and Touré have both been heavily linked with moves away from the club, meaning that Hoffenheim might be more protective of Lemperle. Plettenberg also claims that several unnamed Bundesliga clubs from the “upper third of the table” are interested in securing Lemperle’s services.

The La Liga outfit faces plenty of domestic competition should they wish to make a move for Lemperle next summer. Bundesliga clubs such as Borussia Dortmund or RB Leipzig could offer Lemperle better prospects for a senior German national team call-up.

GGFN | Peter Weis