Atlético de Madrid made a decision in the winter market, not wanting to bring in a reinforcement that wouldn't improve what they had already planned. The goal is to focus any economic effort on a summer market where important moves and a leap in quality are expected. In fact, in recent months, the names of great stars have emerged who would be perfect to be under Simeone's orders.
One of them, on the other hand, is set to become one of the most expensive transfers in the history of his club, something that wasn't particularly complicated. The initial idea at the Metropolitano is to continue with the path that began to be built last year, aiming to have the most competitive players on the continent. Carlos Bucero, along with Gil Marín and Cholo, have important names on their agenda that will allow them to compete for all the titles again.
A Historic Signing in LaLiga
It's no longer a mystery that Atlético de Madrid has Álex Baena as their top priority to improve the midfield for the next season. The Spanish international is going to be one of the great sagas of Spanish soccer in the summer, with offers from important clubs in Europe. The player would look favorably on being under Simeone's orders, although a definitive decision hasn't been made yet.
His release clause is close to €60 million, and Villarreal has many options to qualify for the next edition of the Champions League. Right now, LaLiga would have an extra spot to compete in that competition, which would be for the Yellow Submarine, for the moment. In that case, no ease would be given for the player's departure, who has already rejected an exorbitant offer from Saudi Arabia.
Simeone's Chosen One
In any case, everything points to Álex Baena becoming the most expensive sale in Villarreal's history, surpassing Eric Bailly, Cedric Bakambu, and also Nicolas Jackson. Several operations have already been carried out by both clubs in the last decade, from Diego Godín to Alexander Sorloth. The Norwegian was the last on the list of deals between the entities, showing that any past problems have been forgotten.
Additionally, the Spanish international would allow Atlético de Madrid to strengthen one of the most challenging areas of the squad, as there is no undisputed starter on the left. Conor Gallagher started the season occupying that position, but Samuel Lino has been growing in recent matches and displacing the Englishman. In winter, the name Zinchenko was strongly mentioned, who would have allowed reinforcement of both the full-back and interior positions.