This summer's transfer market brought one of the most shocking surprises in LaLiga. Rodrigo de Paul decided to leave Atlético de Madrid to join Inter Miami, where his close friend Lionel Messi plays. The Argentine midfielder, a key piece for Simeone in recent years, chose to seek a change of scenery and embark on a project that brings him even closer to Leo.
His departure was a hard blow for Atlético, since De Paul was one of the leaders in the locker room and a key piece. With his exit, the team loses quality, intensity, and character, three qualities the Argentine consistently brought to every match.
A worrying start to the league for Atlético
The loss of De Paul has been felt at the start of the league. Atlético de Madrid has started the season with only two points out of a possible nine. The team can't find stability and the results are already leaving it out of the fight for the top spots.
Without its engine in midfield, Simeone is trying to restructure the center of the field, but the team still can't get going. The lack of a reliable replacement for De Paul is taking its toll and, for now, the outlook doesn't inspire optimism.
Julián Álvarez's discontent
This situation isn't pleasing Julián Álvarez, Atlético's biggest star. The Argentine forward, who arrived last summer to be the team's offensive reference, expected a winning project that would immediately put him in contention for titles. However, the weak start to the season and the departure of key players like De Paul have sparked his frustration.
Julián hasn't hesitated to express his discontent internally, and within the rojiblanco environment, there is already concern about his continuity. The forward signed to win and sees how those expectations are far from being met.
Barça keeping an eye on the situation
In this regard, Barça isn't missing a detail. The club has next summer marked in red as the time to sign a new center forward, since that's when Robert Lewandowski's contract ends. The sporting management considers Julián the perfect profile to inherit the Pole's number 9.
Barça knows the operation won't be easy, but it's also aware that the situation at Atlético de Madrid could open a window of opportunity. If the Argentine decides to look for a new destination, Laporta and Hansi Flick would be willing to make a significant effort to bring him to the blaugrana side. Julián Álvarez is the forward of the future, and Barça doesn't want to miss the chance to sign him.