Atlético de Madrid will receive a very special visit this Sunday, especially in terms of future signings. For years, the red-and-white team has closed several deals with the Valencian team, both in arrivals and departures. This summer, both clubs had reached an agreement for the transfer of Javi Guerra for just over 20 million euros.
However, the Spanish midfielder was only an alternative for Conor Gallagher , whose arrival was in doubt for several days. Now, having had to stay under the orders of Rubén Baraja , the player will step into what could have been his new stadium. In fact, his current coach has sent him a clear message in the press conference prior to the match at the Metropolitano , asking him to perform better.
Javi Guerra, facing a very special match
The Valencia youth player is one of the great projects in Spanish football, quickly establishing himself in the elite and becoming an undisputed starter. Players such as Javi Guerra were the ones who saved the Valencian team from being relegated a few seasons ago. In addition, he managed to establish himself in the first team, being regularly called up to the Spanish U-21 team .
It is therefore not surprising that big European teams have been interested in signing him, although none have managed to close the deal. Atlético de Madrid were very close to signing Javi Guerra this summer, offering just over 20 million euros and a percentage of future sales. In fact, there was already an agreement between the sporting directors and the player was not present at training with Valencia .
However, his signing was directly linked to the future of Conor Gallagher , who was still training in London. The English international was waiting for the red-and-white team to close a sale so he could make his arrival in Spain effective. Once his signing was closed, Gil Marín had to personally apologize to Valencia for not being able to sign Javi Guerra .
A potential replacement for Koke
The Spaniard has reportedly joined a highly competitive Atletico team , but could have gained importance over the years. One of the biggest problems that Atletico Madrid will have will be finding a reliable replacement for a player like Koke . The Atletico captain has been an undisputed starter in the midfield for over a decade, making the need for a replacement inevitable.
Pablo Barrios is the one who seems to have taken those reins, showing a great level during the first few days of this campaign. Simeone is aware of the great potential that the youth player has, especially as a more than possible substitute for Koke . Despite his injury, this season Pablo Barrios is expected to finish taking that step forward that he needs to become a leader.