Atlético de Madrid have received an unexpected blow in the transfer market. Simeone's intention to reinforce his squad with left-back Miguel Gutiérrez has been firmly blocked by Real Madrid. Carlo Ancelotti and the top brass of the club, with Florentino Pérez at the helm, have decided that they will not sell the youth player to the Colchoneros.
Simeone's interest in Miguel Gutierrez
Simeone had been exploring options for weeks to strengthen his defensive line, and the name of Miguel Gutiérrez emerged as a very attractive possibility. At just 23 years old, Gutiérrez has shown his quality in LaLiga, especially after his good performance with Girona, where he arrived last summer in search of minutes.
Atletico Madrid saw Gutierrez as a perfect opportunity to fill a position that could use more depth. His youth, speed and experience in international competitions, including his recent Olympic gold, made him a clear target for Simeone. However, there was one major obstacle: Real Madrid still owned half of the player's rights and therefore controlled any potential move for the full-back.
The refusal of Ancelotti and Florentino Perez
The possibility of seeing a former La Fábrica player triumph in the red and white shirt is not something that sits well in Chamartín, and the response was clear. Ancelotti made it clear that Real Madrid will not sell Gutiérrez to Atlético.
This type of refusal is not unusual between the two clubs, where the rivalry transcends the playing field. Real Madrid is not willing to strengthen a competitor with one of its home-grown talents. Florentino Pérez and the board have been blunt on this matter, considering that any move that favours Simeone's team could end up being detrimental.
The future of Miguel Gutierrez
Miguel Gutiérrez is in a complex situation. His future remains unknown, but what seems clear is that, for the moment, his destiny will not be linked to Atlético de Madrid. Despite the interest of Atlético de Madrid, Real Madrid are not willing to facilitate his departure to a direct rival.
For Gutiérrez, this refusal is also significant. The young full-back has proven his worth, but it seems that his development will continue away from the Metropolitano. Girona, for its part, could benefit from this situation if it manages to retain the player, who has been one of its most outstanding players.