Atlético Madrid Step Up Pursuit of Thiago Almada

Atlético Madrid are working on signing Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada from Lyon. Talks are progressing as the club and player discuss details. Almada is keen to join the Spanish side, where he would join several fellow Argentines under Diego Simeone.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Atlético Madrid have been in direct contact with Lyon and Thiago Almada’s representatives about a summer transfer. Almada, 24, impressed during his loan spell at Lyon from Botafogo, drawing interest from major clubs like Benfica and Premier League teams. He contributed two goals and five assists, helping Lyon secure Europa League qualification last season. Despite Benfica offering €28 million, Atlético are optimistic about Almada’s interest and Diego Simeone’s support.

According to a previous report, Atlético Madrid is trying to sign Thiago Almada and have started talks for his transfer.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Lyon are facing financial difficulties and may need to sell key players like Almada, although they recently won their appeal to stay in Ligue 1. Benfica are strong contenders for Almada’s signature, but the midfielder is drawn to Atlético’s Argentine core, including Julian Alvarez, Rodrigo De Paul, and manager Diego Simeone. Almada has impressed both at club level and for Argentina. His creativity and attacking skills make him an ideal candidate to fill any gap if Rodrigo De Paul leaves for Inter Miami. Having finished third in La Liga last season and with Champions League qualification secured, Atlético need more creativity in midfield.

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

WHAT’S NEXT?

Lyon are considering another loan offer for Almada, but financial demands and interest from top clubs might force a sale. Atlético are expected to ramp up negotiations soon. Their next competitive match is a La Liga opener against Espanyol, an important clash for both teams at the start of the season as Atletico aims to improve on last season’s finish, and Espanyol only secured La Liga football for this season in the tail end of the campaign. Atlético hope Almada’s arrival could help them challenge for the title as they continue to trail behind Real Madrid and Barcelona.