Real Madrid and AC Milan flop nears AEK Athens move after shock switch to La Liga newcomers falls through

According to a report from Marca, Jovic is set to join Athens after rejecting an offer from newly promoted La Liga side Real Oviedo. The Serbian striker, who previously failed to impress at both Real Madrid and AC Milan, has agreed a deal with Athens until June 2027. After negotiations with Oviedo intensified in recent weeks, Jovic ultimately declined their project, favouring the proposal from the Greek club. He is currently in Athens to complete his medical and finalise the transfer.

Jovic has struggled to live up to expectations since his €63 million ($71m/£54m) move to Madrid in 2019, tallying just three goals in 51 appearances before spells at Fiorentina and Milan, where he found only limited success. Despite Real Oviedo’s attempts to secure his signature ahead of their return to La Liga, Athens have capitalised on Jovic's desire for a fresh start, to the point that he even rejected Cruz Azul. The move is expected to become official after medical examinations, with Jovic aiming to revive his career for the Greek Super League side.

Jovic’s contract with Milan expired earlier this summer, making him a free agent. He scored 13 goals in 47 matches during his time at Milan, but injuries have plagued his career since leaving Eintracht Frankfurt, where he famously scored five goals in a single Bundesliga match - becoming the youngest ever to do so in that league.

After passing his medical, Jovic is expected to be unveiled as an Athens player and will join pre-season preparations immediately. With a contract running through June 2027, he seeks to establish himself as AEK’s lead striker. Oviedo, left empty-handed, will continue their search for a forward ahead of the new La Liga campaign. Jovic’s move shuts the door on a return to Spanish football for now, as he focuses on finding form and consistency in Greece.