After being linked to some of Europe's top teams such as Milan, Arsenal and even Manchester United, Colombian striker will be joining Atletico Madrid after a three-year stint with FC Porto. The Portuguese side revealed through their website the deal with Los Colchoneros, who had sold Mario Mandzukic to Juventus back in June to make room for Martinez.
"Atletico de Madrid informed Futebol Clube do Porto – Futebol, SAD that they will pay the release fee for player Jackson Martínez, worth 35 million euros," can be read on the team's website.
Martinez, 28, joined Porto prior to the start of the 2012-2013 season, becoming the goal scoring leader of the Portuguese Primeira Liga in each of those years. This season, Martinez scored 21 goals for The Dragons, despite not starting the season due to an injury. Considering all competitions, the Colombian striker netted 92 goals for FC Porto.
Last week, Martinez told reporters that his deal with Atletico was done, even before any team confirmed it.
"I can confirm it. I will be joining Atlético. It will be a four-year deal, and I'm very excited about this move, it's a huge step for my career," Martinez said.
Martinez will try to add some talent to Atletico's frontline as Radamel Falcao did in the past. The now down-on-his-luck striker joined Atletico from Porto a few years ago, and Martinez expects to fill the void left by Mario Mandzukic perfectly.
