Atlético de Madrid open their LaLiga campaign on Monday against Villarreal with some pending issues in their squad. So far, the red-and-white team has presented three signings in this summer market, although more are on the way. For now, Conor Gallagher is the one closest to being closed, but the sporting management wants to finish strengthening the defence.
One of Simeone's priorities is to get a left-footed defender to replace Mario Hermoso, who is currently out of the squad. The Spaniard left the squad this summer after his contract expired and he was unable to reach an agreement to renew his contract with the club. However, the club have not been able to secure their top priority as the transfer window draws to a close.
Atletico Madrid in emergency
The transfer market has been very difficult so far at the Metropolitano, with several obstacles. It has been particularly difficult to find a centre-back who can be the undisputed left-footed defender in the Atlético defence. The favourite is David Hancko, who has been training with Feyenoord for some time and has even played several matches.
Atlético de Madrid have not been able to make a convincing offer to the Netherlands, although there is still one last chance. As Relevo pointed out, the intention of the sporting management is to achieve a significant sale that can bring money to the club. In this way, they could afford to transfer a defender who is at a good level and not resort to any alternative.
Piero Hincapié is another favourite, although his signing has the same problem as David Hancko's. He is an undisputed player for Bayer Leverkusen and the Ecuadorian national team, but his asking price is very high. Atlético de Madrid are currently working on the immediate sale of Joao Félix to Chelsea, a deal that would bring more than 40 million euros to Cívitas Metropolitano.
Reinildo, waiting
One of the most affected by this situation is the Mozambican, who wants to return to showing his best form on the pitch. Reinildo returned to the team's dynamic last season after recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament. However, he showed a very irregular performance and was greatly outperformed by Mario Hermoso and César Azpilicueta.
The Navarrese player won the position from Reinildo in decisive matches, such as the knockout against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Therefore, the arrival of a signing for his position should serve to help him take a step forward this season. Right now, the Mozambican is competing with Ilias Kostis and César Azpilicueta himself to start in defence against Villarreal.