At the moment, there are few certainties at Atlético de Madrid for the upcoming season, but one of them is the end of several footballers' contracts. Axel Witsel is one of those who, barring any surprises, will leave the red-and-white team once the transfer market opens, possibly extending his stay until the Club World Cup ends. In any case, his departure seems assured, and the sports management will need to find at least two center-backs to strengthen the defense.
In recent months, several names have been mentioned as potential arrivals for the defense, although there is still no standout priority. In fact, from the Metropolitano, numerous options of different profiles and countries are being monitored, showing that many different alternatives are being considered. Specifically, there is one that is going unnoticed but would also be on Manchester City's radar, where a significant investment is expected in the summer.
Axel Witsel Is Left Without a Replacement
At Atlético de Madrid, they are aware that there is still a long way to go for the summer market, especially in defense. Besides the Belgian, César Azpilicueta and Reinildo also have expiring contracts, while Clement Lengletwill finish his loan and must return to FC Barcelona. Therefore, two new center-backs will need to arrive at the Metropolitano, although a larger number is not ruled out depending on other potential departures from the squad.
The sports management is scouting different profiles that could be useful for Simeone, providing immediate performance and having the option to increase in value. One of the options is Ousmane Diomande, a 21-year-old Ivorian center-back playing for Sporting de Portugal, who will have many offers from major European clubs. It seems that one of the interested parties will be Manchester City, where many changes will need to be made after a disappointing season.
A Wish of Pep Guardiola for the Defense
The Spanish coach has seen how the reigning champion of England has become one of the most fragile teams in Europe, conceding many goals this season. Therefore, he seeks to strengthen the defense, and the name of Ousmane Diomande is strongly mentioned, with a market value of 40 million euros. However, Sporting de Portugal will already sell Gyökeres for almost 80 million euros, not needing to offload other important players.
Atlético de Madrid had also been mentioned as one of the clubs in the race for the center-back, although it is not a priority. Names like Álex Baena or Gyökeres himself are more important for the colchonero team, without forgetting a defense that will suffer many departures. In this scenario, an investment of that magnitude seems difficult to carry out unless an unexpected sale brings money to the red-and-white coffers.