Borussia Mönchengladbach's Ko Itakura appears headed to Frankfurt
The Rheinische Post reports Borussia Mönchengladbach defender Ko Itakura's most likely destination will be Eintracht Frankfurt. The Japanese international's lack of a future with his current Bundesliga club has never been in much doubt. RP claims that Eintracht are prepared to engage in a serious pursuit.
The SGE must compensate for the presumed loss of long time defensive stalwart Tuta, who is being heavily linked with an exit. Itakura has been linked with a move to a whole plethora of Bundesliga sides, including Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund at one point.
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Gladbach remain eager to complete Itakura's sale in order to raise capital and pursue their own summer transfer needs. Though the 28-year-old only maintains an estimated €12m market value, the foals can easily secure several million more for him.
Itakura just completed a highly successful season in which he scored three of his career six Bundesliga goals. A €15-20m price tag seems reasonable.
GGFN | Peter Weis
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