Atlético Madrid Sign David Hancko for €30m from Feyenoord

Atlético Madrid have signed Slovak defender David Hancko from Feyenoord for €30 million plus add-ons. The 26-year-old joined Atlético after a deal with Al Nassr fell through. Hancko will stay with Atlético until June 2030.

WHAT HAPPENED?

David Hancko was set to join Al Nassr, but the deal collapsed. Atlético Madrid quickly signed him instead. They agreed to pay Feyenoord €30 million plus bonuses. Hancko passed his medical on July 23, 2025. He is now a key part of Diego Simeone’s defence. Hancko was wanted by many clubs, but Atlético acted fast after Al Nassr backed out during preseason in Austria.

IMPACT ON ATLÉTICO AND FEYENOORD

Atlético Madrid finished third in La Liga last season, conceding 43 goals, and are rebuilding their squad to compete with Real Madrid and Barcelona. They were eight points behind the leaders and three points ahead of fourth place. Atlético needed defensive players after conceding 43 goals in 38 games. Hancko can play both centre-back and left-back, fitting well with Simeone’s tactics. Feyenoord lose a key defender who made over 30 appearances and scored four goals last season. They finished second in the Eredivisie, just behind PSV Eindhoven.

LOOKING AHEAD

Atlético Madrid’s next challenge is the La Liga opener against Espanyol on August 9, 2025. Espanyol finished close to relegation last season, and will want to set up a very different season this time around. Atlético are third favourites for the title. With Hancko and other new signings like Thiago Almada, they aim to win titles. Hancko is expected to start immediately, helping Atlético strengthen their defence and compete for the league title and a deep Champions League run. They will also monitor any potential departures as the transfer window remains open.