Without a doubt, one of Atlético de Madrid's tasks for the future summer market will be to strengthen the defense with high-level players. It is a process that began last year, achieving the departure of players who had completed their cycle and bringing in good footballers. Now, they aim to continue with that same roadmap, and at the Metropolitano, they have several names on their agenda that can help Simeone next season.
Although it may not be a priority, the right flank could gain new prominence that would help Marcos Llorente advance his position. The goal would be to give Nahuel Molina more competition and for the Spanish international to definitively adapt to the winger position. Last weekend, the red-and-white team was scouting in LaLiga for who could be the chosen one to improve that area of the field.
The New Partner for Marcos Llorente
According to Cadena SER, the colchonero team was very alert to a player from Osasuna in the match they played against Valencia. It is Jesús Areso, a 25-year-old footballer whose contract ends in 2026 and who is on the red-and-white radar. His release clause is slightly above 10 million euros, being a great market opportunity to strengthen the defense.
The arrival of the Spaniard would help Marcos Llorente definitively leave the full-back position and become the main competition for Giuliano Simeone as a winger. However, it is a signing that will have competition, as Athletic Club has long been interested in acquiring the full-back's services. Obviously, Atlético de Madrid seems a much more attractive destination, especially after witnessing their notable improvement this season.
Simeone Worries About the Defense
An essential aspect for the colchonero team to compete for titles is having a solid backline that concedes few goals. So far, Atlético de Madrid is the team in the five major leagues of Europe that has conceded the fewest goals, being very reliable at the back. It is something that Simeone needed to recover, as defensive security was lost last year, preventing them from competing for the championships.
Beyond Jesús Areso, the goal would be to incorporate two center-backs and another name for the left side, where Javi Galán remains undisputed. The sports management is aware that they are going through a good moment and do not want to stop improving a squad that is delivering good results. It will not be the only area to incorporate new pieces, as the greater desire is to raise the level of all lines of the field with great stars.