A man with a beard and curly hair in the foreground with a blurred soccer team in the background at a stadium.

Simeone Is Shocked by His Signing for Defense: Doubts at the Metropolitano

The performance of a player liked by the club didn't fully convince.

Atlético de Madrid secured an important victory at Mestalla against Valencia with a 0-3 score. Simeone's team set the victory on track in the first half, with two goals from Julián Alvarez and a great performance by Antoine Griezmann. In the second half, they struggled more, but the defense remained firm and Ángel Correa, from the bench, sealed the match.

soccer player celebrating a goal with the Atlético de Madrid jersey.
Julián celebrating one of his goals | Europapress

At Valencia, there are several players who are on Atlético de Madrid's radar, and Simeone was able to examine them live. The Argentine coach has requested the red-and-white sports management to bring in a new central defender, and a player from Valencia is on the agenda. This is the young defender Cristhian Mosquera, the 20-year-old Spanish-Colombian who is being followed by several top European clubs.

Left the Coaching Staff Cold

Mosquera was one of the best central defenders in LaLiga last season, despite being only 19 years old (last season). This made teams like Atlético de Madrid, Bayern Munich, and AC Milan take notice of him to strengthen their defenses. Simeone had the opportunity to examine him live, and his performance was not the best.

The young central defender is not playing at his best level, and it's true that the team's level doesn't help at all. Mosquera didn't show confidence with the ball and wasn't successful in marking Julián Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann. The red-and-white fans are already doubting him on social media, but he is a very young footballer who is an undisputed starter in the First Division.

His Exit Price

It has been learned that Cristhian Mosquera's exit price would be between 25 and 30 million euros. The relations between Atlético de Madrid and Valencia are excellent, so there wouldn't be a problem from that side. Additionally, it has been reported several times that Peter Lim wouldn't put up major obstacles to his departure if he wishes so.

Image of Cristhian Mosquera in Valencia
Mosquera last season | Europa Press

Moreover, Valencia is not in a good position in the standings, as they are currently in relegation. If they were to be relegated, they would have to part with several footballers, and Mosquera would be one of them.