Johnny Cardoso Set to Join Atlético Madrid for Over €30 Million

Atlético Madrid have reached a deal with Real Betis to sign Johnny Cardoso. The Spanish giants are set to pay over €30 million for the 23-year-old midfielder, who is expected to sign a five-year contract as part of one of the first major summer moves.

WHAT HAPPENED?

After weeks of negotiations, Atlético Madrid finalized a transfer deal for Cardoso, one of La Liga‘s top young defensive midfielders, for €30 million, with an additional €2 million in add-ons. Cardoso, who joined Betis from Internacional last year, played 46 matches last season, scoring four goals and providing one assist. With personal terms settled long ago, only the final formalities remain before Cardoso is formally added to Atlético Madrid’s squad.

According to a previous report we published, Real Sociedad and Brighton expect to finalize Igor Julio’s loan deal soon.

WHY CARDOSO IS A BIG SIGNING

Cardoso joins an Atlético side in need of a fresh injection of energy in midfield, following a season that ended with a whimper due to an early Club World Cup exit in the group stage. Atlético finished third in La Liga, never challenging for the title, but they did secure a place in next season’s Champions League. Cardoso has qualities that Diego Simeone desires, such as strength, tackling ability, and aerial prowess. At Betis, the U.S. international averaged more than two tackles and interceptions per game, along with almost three clearances. He was a crucial component in Betis reaching sixth place in La Liga and the Conference League final, where they were defeated by Chelsea.

WHAT NEXT FOR ATLÉTICO MADRID?

Cardoso’s signing will be officially announced in the coming days, and he will join a midfield group that includes Conor Gallagher, Marcos Llorente, and Rodrigo De Paul. Atlético is also in the process of adding more talent, with Villarreal’s Álex Baena as the next transfer target. After finishing 13 points behind the champions last season, Atlético’s goal is to close the gap on Real Madrid and Barcelona in the upcoming campaign. Cardoso is expected to make his debut in the La Liga opener in August. Meanwhile, Betis will be looking to reinvest in the summer window as they aim to defend their top-six La Liga finish.

According to a previous report we published, Barcelona aims to defend their La Liga title in the new season.