Atlético Madrid Secure Marc Pubill Transfer From Almería in €20m Deal

Atlético Madrid have signed right-back Marc Pubill from UD Almería for €20 million, including add-ons. Almería also kept a 15% sell-on clause on any future transfer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The move for Marc Pubill was sudden, surprising many in the football world. The 21-year-old Spanish defender was wanted by several clubs, including Wolves and top Italian teams like Milan and Juventus. Atlético Madrid acted fast and secured the deal for €16 million plus €4 million in potential bonuses. Pubill leaves Almería after playing 36 matches last season, scoring one goal, and providing four assists. His performances for Spain’s U-21 team, especially during the gold medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics, have made him a rising star.

ATLÉTICO’S REBUILDING CONTINUES

This transfer is Atlético Madrid’s fifth signing for the 2025–26 season, following new arrivals like Álex Baena, Jhonny Cardoso, Matteo Ruggeri, and Thiago Almada. The club’s leadership sees Pubill as important for rejuvenating the squad under Coach Diego Simeone. Atlético Madrid finished last season third in LaLiga, nine points behind champions Barcelona, and were knocked out of the Champions League in the knockout stage. Strengthening the full-back position is aimed at helping the club compete for trophies this year following the departure of Saúl Ñíguez.

Almería, meanwhile, continue life in Spain’s Segunda División after missing promotion by five points. They lose a standout player but benefit from a significant transfer fee and future sell-on clause.

WHAT LIES AHEAD?

Pubill is expected to compete for the starting right-back role as Atlético Madrid prepare for the new LaLiga campaign, which starts with a home fixture against Espanyol next month. Atlético finished the last season in 3rd place but failed to pose a real threat to the two teams that battled for the title, Real Madrid and eventual winners Barcelona. With tight competition expected in the top half, Simeone hopes that the youthful energy of Pubill and the other new signings can boost the team’s title challenge.

Almería will open their Segunda División season versus Leganés, aiming to return to LaLiga after being relegated. Future success for Pubill could see Almería benefit further from the 15% sell-on clause included in the transfer agreement.