Undoubtedly, one of the great surprises experienced at Atlético de Madrid this season is the step forward taken by very unexpected players. The red-and-white team struggled a bit to get going during the early stages of the season, not finding their playing style. It was after the change of formation that Simeone clearly saw the direction the line-up should take and who would be in his starting eleven.
One who earned his spot is Javi Galán, who began to grow after his assist to Ángel Correa in the draw against Real Madrid at the Metropolitano. His departure was practically sealed in the summer transfer market, with both Getafe and Sevilla seeking his arrival on loan. However, he was forced to stay and has now become an indisputable part of the defense ahead of Reinildo.
Javi Galán Will Face New Competition
Looking ahead to the next season, one of the main urgencies at Atlético de Madrid is to incorporate a good left-back who can provide another option for Simeone. Initially, Reinildois out of contract and there have been no advances for a renewal, potentially leaving in July as a free agent. Already in winter, Zinchenko was strongly rumored, who could have strengthened that left flank both in the full-back and interior positions.
Another name that has also been mentioned is Tyrick Mitchell, an English international from Crystal Palace who is out of contract and can now sign with any club. He is a much more defensive profile than Javi Galán, having played 29 official matches this season, providing three assists, and having a market value of 25 million. He would be a great addition for the red-and-whites, but he has many offers from the Premier League that complicate his departure from England.
A Necessary Signing for Simeone
For now, Tyrick Mitchell has been linked with Arsenal, Tottenham, and AC Milan, all important teams where he could end up. However, the colchonero team is considering other options to strengthen that position, potentially incorporating a versatile center-back. For example, both David Hancko and Piero Hincapié are defenders capable of playing in both positions in the backline.
The Slovak has everything agreed to land at Juventus of Turin, but the Ecuadorian international remains one of the favorites at Atlético de Madrid. His signing wouldn't be cheap, but it would represent a quality leap for a defense that will suffer many departures after this season. Additionally, at the Metropolitano, they don't rule out making a renewal offer to Javi Galán, as his contract ends in 2026 and he would be delighted to continue.