Atlético de Madrid is convinced that strengthening the defense must be its top priority once the summer market opens and they can make signings. Several footballers will leave the squad starting in July, and at that time, some operations must be closed to improve the squad. In this regard, all positions in the backline are a target for the sports management, especially the full-backs.
This season, to the surprise of many, Marcos Llorente and Javi Galán have become the undisputed starters on the flanks thanks to their great level. This has forced players like Nahuel Molina or Reinildo to have a more secondary role and have to earn their place back. In the case of the Argentine, he could face a new competitor for the next season if the red-and-white team is able to secure one of its great desires.
Simeone Sets His Sights on LaLiga
The roadmap at Atlético de Madrid is to start giving more importance to the national market, something that had been notably forgotten in recent seasons. Jesús Areso, 25 years old, has established himself as one of the most outstanding full-backs in the championship thanks to his great defensive and offensive contribution. He is on Luis de la Fuente's radar to debut with the senior national team of Spain and seems set to change teams this year.
He has a release clause of 12 million euros, being one of the great market opportunities in LaLiga to strengthen. Osasuna has tried to renew him, but the player would be willing to take a step forward in his career and already has several clubs interested in his signing. Athletic Club is one of the favorites, although it seems that the strength of the red-and-white team is superior to that of the Basque side.
Competition for Nahuel Molina and Marcos Llorente
It's not a new interest, as Jesús Areso was already on Atlético de Madrid's agenda last summer, although his transfer was not negotiated. The intention is to strengthen that right flank, forcing Nahuel Molina to raise his level and having the option to move Marcos Llorente to the winger position. At Osasuna, they sought to increase his salary and raise the clause to 20 million euros to make his departure more difficult and avoid future offers.
If they manage to close this operation, it would be a more than positive reinforcement for the red-and-white team, as it fits perfectly with what Simeone needs on the field. At the Metropolitano, they want to continue growing, getting closer to the best teams in Europe, and staying in the fight for LaLiga. It won't be the only name mentioned for the defense, but it is one of the most interesting due to adaptation and exit price.