Sport Bild Report: Gladbach have Thuram replacement lined up
Germany's main sporting tabloid reports that, in the event of Marcus Thuram's departure, Borussia Mönchengladbach have a preferred replacement attacker lined up in the form of Croatian youth international Dion Drena Beljo.
With a potential sale of French forward Marcus Thuram potentially looking more likely over the coming winter transfer period, Germany's "Sport Bild" reports that the West Prussian foals have a potential replacement lined up. NK Osijek striker Dion Drena Beljo had previously been linked with Gladbach last summer. A offer of €3.5 million for the 20-year-old was even reported to have been rejected.
If Roland Virkus and the BMG administrative team suddenly find themselves flush with cash from a Marcus Thuram sale, however, a slightly higher sum should be more than enough to secure a transfer. Gladbach obviously do not wish to let Thuram go for a reported €10-12 million, but may find themselves with little other choice if they wish to cash in on the Frenchman's expiring contract.
Beljo śaw his estimated market worth double to approximately €6.5 million after a successful 20-goal loan campaign with Croat side NK Istra 1961 last season. Back at his parent club this year, the exceedingly tall (1.95 m or 6'5'') center forward has scored nine goals and chipped in two assists in 19 appearances across all competitions.
BMG sporting director Virkus has consistently insisted that he and his team have been engaged in "intensive scouting" and are thoroughly prepared to bring in replacements should Thuram leave the club. Thuram himself - who maintains an estimated market worth of €30 million - has scored 13 goals and registered four assists in 17 total appearances for Gladbach this year.