Atletico Madrid spent some huge cash final summer time, and they’re additionally anticipated to be busy once more on the switch entrance in 2025. Specifically, there needs to be actions in defence, with at the least two departures anticipated.
Throughout final summer time’s switch window, Robin Le Normand and Clement Lenglet (mortgage) have been introduced in from Actual Sociedad and Barcelona respectively. Nevertheless, even when the latter indicators on a everlasting foundation earlier than the beginning of the 2025-26 season, it’s probably that at the least yet one more central defender will wanted to be added to Diego Simeone’s squad.
It is because Axel Witsel and Cesar Azpilicueta will each be leaving Atleti on the finish of the season when their contracts come to an finish. It has already been determined that the 2 veterans is not going to be provided a renewal, so their presence within the squad will must be changed.
Atleti may look to a well-known face to fill the voids left by Witsel and Azpilicueta, as CaughtOffside have reported that they’re anticipated to reignite their curiosity in David Hancko, who was one among their main switch targets final summer time. Los Colchoneros made a number of presents for the Slovakian defender, however they have been all rejected by Feyenoord, who managed to retain his providers for at the least yet one more season.
In line with the report, Feyenoord worth Hancko at €50m, which might be extremely steep for Atleti – particularly in the event that they have been to signal Alex Baena, who can be accessible for the same price in the summertime. To make issues extra sophisticated, it’s additionally famous that Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are additionally eager on the 27-year-old, who can function at left-back in addition to within the centre of defence.
It will absolutely be very powerful for Atletico Madrid to usher in Hancko, though he could be a high signing. It will likely be fascinating to see who they do go for in the summertime when Witsel and Azpilicueta transfer on.