Real Sociedad target Atubolu as Remiro exit talks with Napoli intensify
Reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate the Basque club has entered the race for SC Freiburg’s Noah Atubolu, signalling a potential restructuring of the goalkeeping department under the new management.
Real Sociedad have joined the competition to sign SC Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo. The development marks a significant shift in the club’s recruitment strategy under new head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who assumed control of the Basque side in December. Matarazzo, formerly of the Bundesliga, is reportedly prioritising German talent, with Atubolu, Finn Dahmen, and Bernd Leno identified as key targets on his wishlist.
The interest in Atubolu coincides with active negotiations regarding the future of current first-choice goalkeeper Álex Remiro. Reports suggest Remiro is in discussions to leave the club this summer, with Italian side SSC Napoli showing interest in securing his services. The potential transfer has sparked speculation regarding a swap deal, with Napoli reportedly offering their own goalkeeper, Alex Meret, in exchange. However, sources indicate that Meret is uninterested in a move to San Sebastián.
Matarazzo’s preference for German goalkeepers extends beyond Atubolu. Alongside Dahmen and Leno, the American coach has also considered Steven Benda, who recently concluded a loan spell at Feyenoord Rotterdam. This focused approach suggests a deliberate attempt to reshape the defensive line’s leadership and technical attributes following his appointment last December.
The situation at Real Sociedad highlights the complexities of modern transfer windows, where incoming recruitment is often contingent on outgoing departures. With Remiro’s exit seemingly likely, the club faces the immediate task of securing a replacement that aligns with Matarazzo’s tactical preferences. The race for Atubolu appears to be a direct response to the anticipated vacancy in the starting lineup.
While the interest in Atubolu is confirmed by reports, the final outcome remains subject to the resolution of the Remiro-Napoli negotiations. The club’s ability to secure a preferred target will depend on whether the Italian side can overcome Meret’s reluctance to move or if they pursue alternative avenues to satisfy their own squad requirements. Until these discussions are concluded, the status of the goalkeeper position remains fluid.
