Simeone’s Atlético Madrid Add Top Talent Ahead of New Season
Atlético Madrid have been busy this summer, investing heavily to reshape their squad ahead of the new season. Diego Simeone has overseen more than £130 million in signings, aiming to strengthen key areas as Atleti look to compete for La Liga and European honors.
One of the standout arrivals is Spanish winger Álex Baena from Villarreal. The 24-year-old creative talent, who recorded 24 assists over the last two La Liga seasons, joins for £39 million on a five-year deal. He is expected to add pace, vision, and goals from the flanks.
Atlético also bolstered their defense with Slovakian centre-back David Hancko, who arrives from Feyenoord for £26.1 million. The 27-year-old won both the Eredivisie and KNVB Cup last season and brings valuable experience to the backline. Italian defender Matteo Ruggeri, Argentine winger Thiago Almada, and young right-back Marc Pubill have also joined, adding depth and versatility.
In midfield, American Johnny Cardoso made the move from Real Betis for £26 million after impressing in the Conference League final. Italian forward Giacomo Raspadori joins from Napoli for £18.9 million, bringing creativity and goals from the front. Goalkeeper Juan Musso has been signed on a three-year deal to provide backup, while young defender Aleksa Puric arrives from Racing Ferrol to strengthen squad options. Clément Lenglet, on the other hand, completes a permanent move from Barcelona after a season-long loan.
Several familiar faces have left the club. Brazilian winger Samuel Lino joined Flamengo in a club-record £18.9 million deal. Versatile defender Santiago Mouriño was sold to Villarreal for £8.5 million, while homegrown attacker Rodrigo Riquelme signed a five-year deal with Real Betis. Young forward Adrián Niño moves to Málaga, and former Chelsea duo César Azpilicueta and Axel Witsel departed on free transfers.
Thomas Lemar has joined Girona on a season-long loan, while World Cup winner Rodrigo de Paul heads to Inter Miami on an initial short-term loan. Saúl Ñiguez also completed a free transfer to Flamengo. Long-serving forward Ángel Correa left after 11 years and 469 games to join Tigres UANL, and left-back Reinildo Mandava moved to Sunderland on a two-year deal.
This summer has seen Atlético Madrid combine major signings with experienced departures, creating a squad that blends youth, quality, and experience. Fans will be eager to see how Simeone integrates his new players as the team aims to challenge on all fronts in the coming season.
