It has become a common saga at Atlético de Madrid to seek a midfielder who can finally bring balance to the engine room. This task has been ongoing since Rodri Hernández's departure to Manchester City in 2019, with varying results. Footballers like Héctor Herrera, Lucas Torreira, Kondogbia, or Arthur Vermeeren have passed through the red-and-white team, all with little consistency.
In the summer market, they will try to solve this problem again, which has become more evident after Pablo Barrios's suspension and Koke's injury. Right now, Simeone has a serious problem finding an ally to join Rodrigo de Paul in this Saturday's visit to Valencia. In recent hours, a surprising name has emerged that would be in the spotlight of the colchoneros and would be more than useful.
Statement for Simeone
It is evident that Atlético de Madrid fell short last year, as the sports management tried to secure the arrival of Javi Guerra until the last moment. They also considered signing a midfielder during the winter, although they didn't find any player who improved what was already in the squad. Therefore, all efforts will be directed toward next summer, where important operations are expected for the colchonero team.
In recent hours, another name has appeared that would be liked at the Metropolitano and could provide immediate performance for Simeone on the field. It is Julian Brandt, a German midfielder from Borussia Dortmund whose contract ends in 2026 and would be open to seeking a new destination. He is 28 years old and has developed his entire career in the Bundesliga, possibly being his last opportunity to move away from Germany.
Many Names at Atlético de Madrid
Julian Brandt has a market value of 35 million euros, although his contractual situation could facilitate finding another destination. He has scored four goals and provided 10 assists in the 29 official matches he has played this season with Borussia Dortmund, the current runner-up of the Champions League. He is a player with a lot of technique and was one of the best in the German team in the knockout stage they played against the red-and-whites last season.
However, there are other midfielders who also have good reports at Atlético de Madrid, such as Álex Baena, the great desired one. Additionally, there are players whose future remains uncertain, such as Thomas Lemar or Rodrigo Riquelme, both with few minutes. Koke will also have to make a decision, as he has the option to continue for another season or decide to end a lifetime as a colchonero.