SC Freiburg are preparing for the departure off Noah Atubolu this summer after securing the signing of Mio Backhaus as his potential successor.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has attracted interest from across Europe, with several Premier League clubs reportedly monitoring his situation, following a standout campaign with Freiburg, where his impressive performances played a key role in the club's run to Europa League final.
Italian giants AC Milan, Inter Milan and Napoli have also been linked with the Freiburg shot-stopper, while Atlético Madrid are said to be among his admirers.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Real Sociedad have now entered the race for Atubolu's signature.
The Basque club's coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, is believed to be keen on bringing the Freiburg goalkeeper to Spain ahead of the new season.
Real Sociedad's interest comes amid uncertainty surrounding the future of current first-choice goalkeeper Álex Remiro.
Should Remiro depart, Atubolu could emerge as one of Real Sociedad's leading options between the posts.
The German-Nigerian enters the final year of his contract this summer, further fueling speculation over a possible transfer.
Atubolu, who was left out of Germany's squad for the upcoming Fifa World Cup is eligible to represent the Super Eagles through his Nigerian father.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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