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The Signing Simeone Has Requested for Atlético's Defense: It's Not Mosquera or Hancko

The Argentine coach is said to have shown interest in this central defender

Atlético de Madrid is still looking for reinforcements for its defense for the upcoming season. After failing to secure the signing of David Hancko, who remains a target for major clubs, the red-and-white sports management has focused on a very interesting alternative: Olivier Boscagli.

A soccer player in a red and black training jersey prepares for a match.
Hancko before a match | Google Imagenes

The French center-back, who currently plays for PSV, has shown outstanding performance in the Eredivisie, becoming a key piece for the Dutch team. But the most attractive aspect for Atlético is not just his quality and versatility, but his contractual situation: his contract ends this summer, which means he could arrive at zero cost.

Boscagli: The Perfect Solution for Atlético de Madrid

In recent transfer windows, Atlético de Madrid has tried to strengthen its defense with top-level players, but financial difficulties have limited operations. In this context, Olivier Boscagli presents himself as an unbeatable market opportunity.

At 26 years old, the French defender has reached football maturity, and his versatility makes him even more attractive to Diego Simeone. He can play as a left center-back, left-back, and even in the midfield, a profile that fits perfectly into the Argentine coach's schemes.

A Versatile Defender: Just What Simeone Is Looking For

Since the departure of Filipe Luis, Atlético de Madrid has struggled to find a reliable left-back. Boscagli, although his natural position is center-back, has shown that he can perform on the flank when necessary. This adds value to a squad that needs versatile players.

A player in a red and white PSV Eindhoven uniform raises his arm on the field.
Boscagli during a match | @psv

Additionally, his ability to play the ball out and his tactical intelligence make him an ideal complement to Robin Le Normand. The possibility of having a pair of center-backs with good ball-playing skills and adaptability to different schemes is something Simeone greatly values.

Atlético de Madrid Has an Advantage in the Race for Boscagli

The great appeal of Olivier Boscagli in the market is his contractual situation. By becoming a free agent in June 2025, he can negotiate with any team without his current club, PSV, receiving any compensation. This makes him a bargain compared to other defenders of similar level, whose market prices are much higher.