No major moves are expected from Atlético de Madrid during this winter transfer market. The red-and-white club doesn't plan to make any significant investments, as the intention is to do so in the summer. However, Diego Pablo Simeone has requested the arrival of one or two reinforcements who can compete for starting positions in this final stretch of the season.
One of the Argentine coach's wishes is to have a new midfielder to strengthen his midfield. One of the players who has been most talked about during this transfer market month is the former Barcelona player, Arthur Melo. The Brazilian is seeking an exit, and Simeone didn't mind his arrival; however, there has been an unexpected turn of events.
Arthur Melo, heading to Montilivi
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Brazilian has reached a preliminary agreement with Girona FC, which is ahead of the red-and-whites. The 28-year-old midfielder had been seeking an exit from Juventus for months, where he wasn't getting playing time in the 2024-2025 season. After being linked to Santos, where he would have coincided with Neymar, Arthur has decided to prioritize his continuity in Europe and has accepted Girona's offer.
The agreement between the Catalan team and Juventus includes a loan until the end of the season, with a possible purchase option that could be activated depending on the objectives met. Vecchia Signora will cover part of the player's salary, which has facilitated the operation for Girona.
A blow for Atlético de Madrid
Atlético had considered the addition of Arthur as an alternative to strengthen their midfield, especially given the lack of depth in the squad. Simeone wanted a player with experience in LaLiga, and Arthur, who had already made an impact during his time at Barcelona, fit the profile the colchoneros were looking for.
However, Girona's determined bid has ended up convincing the player, who will have the opportunity to regain his best form under the guidance of Míchel Sánchez. This is bad news for Atlético, which will have to look for other options to strengthen their squad in the second half of the season.