Ebert in talks with Atletico

Atletico Madrid have opened negotiations to sign Real Valladolid midfielder Patrick Ebert, according to Marca.

Los Colchoneros have been following the talented winger since the start of the season, and they seem to have stepped up their interest of late.

Marca reporters have pictured the 26-year-old having lunch with Atletico Madrid sporting director Jose Luis Perez Caminero.

This is enough to suggest that talks between the two clubs are in advanced phase, and everything suggests Ebert will be arriving at Vicente Calderon in the summer transfer window.

The German midfielder has a contract until June 2014 at Estadio Jose Zorrilla and an €8 million release clause inserted in his deal, although Atletico officials will attempt to lower the asking price.

Patrick Ebert has been in scintillating form ever since he joined Real Valladolid from Hertha last summer, scoring 5 goals and setting up as many in 15 La Liga fixtures.