Atlético Madrid Sign Dávid Hancko from Feyenoord in €30 Million Deal

Atlético Madrid have strengthened their defense by signing Slovakian defender Dávid Hancko from Feyenoord on a five-year deal. The total fee is €30 million plus add-ons.

WHAT HAPPENED?

After talks with Al Nassr failed at the last moment, Atlético Madrid quickly closed a deal with Feyenoord for Dávid Hancko. The Spanish team agreed to pay €30 million plus add-ons, finalizing the deal on July 23, 2025. Hancko, who had already agreed to personal terms, completed his medical in Madrid and signed until June 2030.

The 26-year-old can play both as a center-back and a left-back, giving Atlético flexibility in defending. They urgently needed reinforcement after a difficult start to pre-season, as reports indicate that Feyenoord’s defense was weak during pre-season.

WHY HANCKO MATTERS TO ATLÉTICO

Hancko joins Atlético after a successful season at Feyenoord, where he was an important player in 48 matches, scoring two goals and providing four assists as a defender. He was key in Feyenoord’s strong Eredivisie campaign, where they finished third behind PSV Eindhoven and Ajax. Hancko also impressed in the Champions League group stage, performing well against Europe’s best teams.

For Atlético Madrid, who finished third in La Liga in 2024/25, Hancko is seen as a vital reinforcement who will strengthen their defense and add tactical variety, especially after they agreed to end Saúl Ñíguez’s contract early.

WHAT NEXT FOR ATLÉTICO AND HANCKO?

With Hancko’s arrival, Atlético’s summer rebuilding of their defense is complete, and they can focus on adding attacking reinforcements. They are getting ready for their first official match of the 2025/26 season, a La Liga opener against Espanyol on matchday 1, who finished dangerously close to relegation last season. Atlético are hoping Hancko’s experience and versatility will help them close the 12-point gap that separated them from league champions Barcelona.

Hancko is expected to compete for a starting spot right away, as manager Diego Simeone seeks greater defensive solidity in the new season.