Atletico close on Paraguayan starlet

Atletico Madrid are stepping up their efforts to sign Paraguayan midfielder Oscar Romero from Cerro Porteno, according to Marca.

The 22-year-old footballer first caught the eye of Brazilian giants Corinthians and with his twin brother Angel leaving to join Timao in the summer, Oscar Romero was widely tipped to move to Brazil as well.

Corinthians seemed to have agreed a deal for the attacking midfielder, but Spanish champions Atletico Madrid are set to spoil their plans.

Namely, los Colchoneros have been impressed by Romero as well and they aim to secure his signature for a fee of €3 million.

And with Cerro Porteno chairman Juan Jose Zapag confirming to Radio 780 AM that the youngster was set for a move to Spanish La Liga, it appears Atletico are on the verge of completing the deal.

Oscar Romero has largely impressed since nailing down a regular starting berth at Cerro Porteno, having scored 11 league goals in the last two seasons.