Atlético de Madrid has a clear target to strengthen its midfield: Álex Baena. The 23-year-old Villarreal midfielder has become one of LaLiga's great promises thanks to his vision of the game and ability to distribute the ball. However, according to some media reports, the Spanish player has made his decision clear, for now.
Atlético aims high with Baena
Atlético de Madrid's interest in Álex Baena is no coincidence. The sports management, led by Gil Marín, considers the Villarreal player a key piece to strengthen the midfield and give a quality boost to the project. His technical ability, versatility, and youth make him an ideal fit for Cholo's scheme.
Despite his undeniable talent, Baena doesn't seem willing to leave the Submarino Amarillo mid-season. According to sources close to the player, his priority is to stay at Villarreal, at least until the end of the campaign. He wants to continue contributing to a team that has allowed him to establish himself in the elite of Spanish football.
Baena's commitment to Villarreal
Baena has taken a mature and calculated approach to the tempting possibility of joining a club as significant as Atlético de Madrid. The midfielder knows that moving to a bigger team is a natural step in his career, but he doesn't want to rush.
Moreover, Baena is on the radar of FC Barcelona and several Premier League clubs, willing to pay the 60 million demanded by Villarreal to process his transfer. The Spanish international would be the perfect replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who is living his last days as a rojiblanco and is expected to leave the club at the end of this season.
His commitment to Villarreal is firm, especially at a time when the club needs stability in its squad. Baena understands that the winter market is a delicate time for any transfer, and he doesn't want to leave his current team in a compromised position for the future.
A complicated signing for Atlético
Besides Álex Baena's desire to stay at Villarreal until the end of the season, at least, the financial demands of the yellow club further complicate the operation. His release clause, combined with his importance in the tactical scheme, makes Villarreal value Baena at a high figure. However, from the rojiblanco club, they see him as a mandatory reinforcement, as they believe he can be a world top player in a few years.