Atlético Madrid Move for Thiago Almada as Summer Transfer Race Heats Up

Atlético Madrid is trying to sign Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada. They are competing with Benfica for his transfer. The Spanish club has started talks to know his availability and transfer conditions in the summer window.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Madrid giant made contact on Saturday to discuss Almada‘s potential transfer. He spent last season on loan at Lyon, which had to sell key players due to their relegation issues, guiding them into the Europa League next season. However, Lyon has been officially relegated to Ligue 2 following a decision by the French league’s financial watchdog but that position has since been corrected and will play in Ligue 1.

According to a previous report, Lyon has been officially relegated to Ligue 2 following a decision by the French league’s financial watchdog.

Benfica placed a €28–35 million offer initially, but Botafogo’s owners asked for €40 million. Almada has made his intention clear to stay in Europe, keeping the door open for a La Liga switch as Atlético are evaluating their options. Benfica are the favorites, but the Rojiblancos are now firmly in the race to sign him.

WHY ATLÉTICO WANT ALMADA

Atlético sees Almada as a long-term successor for Antoine Griezmann and is eyeing him as a replacement for compatriot Rodrigo De Paul, who may soon move to Inter Miami. Significant progress has been made in talks between Inter Miami and Atlético Madrid for Rodrigo De Paul’s transfer

According to a previous report, significant progress has been made in talks between Inter Miami and Atlético Madrid for Rodrigo De Paul’s transfer.

With manager Diego Simeone and a number of Argentine players already in their ranks, Almada will be joining a strong contingent from his homeland. Atlético finished third in La Liga last season

According to a previous report, Atlético Madrid finished third in LaLiga last season.

and are continuing a midfield rebuild, having already secured Alex Baena and Real Betis’ Johnny Cardoso. Almada’s creativity could complement them as they aim to close the gap with Real Madrid and Barcelona at the top.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE TRANSFER BATTLE?

Botafogo‘s owners are waiting for concrete bids as both Benfica and Atlético increase their interest in Almada. The Spanish club, who will play in the Champions League next season, remains Almada’s most likely destination unless the Rojiblancos step up their efforts soon. Simeone’s men will need to be sharp with their summer business ahead of their league opener against Villarreal.

Atlético Madrid’s next match is the opening of their 2025/26 La Liga campaign on August 9 a previous report.

They are set for a difficult start to the campaign, with rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona to follow in the coming weeks.