Diego Simeone continues shaping the reinforcements for next season, and one of his priorities is to strengthen Atlético de Madrid's defense. After the success of signing a Barcelona center-back last summer, the Argentine coach wants to repeat the formula and take advantage of a new market opportunity offered by FC Barcelona.
The player in question has gone from being a pillar in Barcelona's defense to being left without minutes this season. His departure seems inevitable, and Barça is willing to negotiate his sale for an affordable figure. In this scenario, Atlético has set its sights on him and is already studying how to close the deal.
A Signing That Fits Simeone's Plans
Atlético de Madrid has experienced defensive ups and downs this season, and Simeone is clear that he needs more solidity in his backline. After the good experience with the last center-back who arrived on loan from Barça, the Argentine coach trusts that this new reinforcement can bring security and experience to his team.
He is a defender with great anticipation ability, good ball distribution, and experience, characteristics that fit perfectly into Cholo's playing style. Additionally, his versatility allows him to play both in a four-man line and in a three-center-back defense, something crucial for Atlético.
A Player With a Brilliant Past, But No Place at Barça
The player in question arrived at Barcelona as a bet for the present and future, in his first season he became a regular. His performance was impeccable and he quickly gained the trust of the coaching staff and the fans.
However, the arrival of Hansi Flick has radically changed his situation. Despite having shown a high level, the German coach has made it clear that he doesn't count on him in his planning. This season he hasn't played a single minute in official matches, not even in games where there have been defensive rotations.
Barça, aware that his continuity doesn't make sense, has decided to put him on the market and is willing to facilitate his departure.
Atlético Seeks to Repeat Lenglet's Formula
Last summer, Atlético de Madrid opted for the loan of Clément Lenglet, and the Frenchman has replied with solid performance. Now, Simeone wants to repeat the operation with this new target, although in this case, a permanent transfer could be finalized.
Barça won't put many obstacles to his departure, as his sale would help alleviate the wage bill and free up space for new signings. Although he arrived for free at the time, the Barcelona club hopes to receive a symbolic amount for his transfer, similar to other departures.
Atlético sees a great opportunity in this move. A center-back with experience, without a high cost, and eager to prove himself after a blank season.
Atlético's New Target
The player in question is Andreas Christensen. The Dane, who arrived at Barça in 2022 from Chelsea, was one of the defensive pillars in his first season. But with Flick's arrival, he has been relegated to oblivion.
His absence in the line-up has been one of the great surprises of the season. With his departure practically assured, Atlético wants to take advantage of the situation to strengthen itself with a top-level player.
Negotiations haven't officially started yet, but the interest of the red-and-white team is firm. Simeone believes that Christensen can regain his best form at Atlético and become a key piece in his defensive scheme.
The transfer market is about to open and the future of the Danish center-back could be solved in the coming weeks. Will Atlético be his new destination?