Atletico Madrid are one of the most active clubs in the summer transfer window, looking to overhaul their squad ahead of the 2025–26 season. With midfielder Rodrigo De Paul reportedly close to joining Inter Miami, the Colchoneros have reportedly set their sights on one of Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammates to reinforce their midfield.
Following a disappointing showing at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Atletico have begun clearing out their roster. Key departures include Axel Witsel, César Azpilicueta, Rodrigo Riquelme, and Ángel Correa. Now, it appears De Paul will be the next to leave as part of the squad revamp.
As Fabrizio Romano reports, the Argentine midfielder is nearing a move to MLS side Inter Miami for a fee slightly below his €15 million release clause. Miami are reportedly pursuing De Paul in part due to his close relationship with Messi, hoping the move will help secure a contract renewal for the World Cup winner. Meanwhile, Atletico are actively seeking replacements in the midfield.
Thiago Almada emerges as top target
According to Argentine transfer expert Uriel Lugt, Atletico Madrid have made progress in negotiations to sign Thiago Almada from Olympique Lyon. The Spanish club is in direct contact with Lyon, who are facing financial pressure and may need to offload players to balance the books.
However, the deal won’t be simple. Almada is also on the radar of Premier League clubs and Portuguese giants Benfica. Despite the competition, Atletico appear to be in pole position thanks to head coach Diego Simeone’s reported push for the signing, and Almada’s own interest in the move.
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A 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina, Almada rose to prominence during his time with Atlanta United before joining John Textor’s Botafogo, where he won the 2024 Copa Libertadores. This growth promoted him to Olympique Lyon (Textor’s property), where he became a key figure in the team’s lineup and remains one of the top Argentine prospects in Europe.
Almada’s performances alongside Messi in the national team have caught the attention of multiple top-tier clubs. Lyon are reportedly seeking €40 million for the midfielder, but Atlético remain hopeful of securing the deal. If signed, Almada would join an Argentine-heavy core in Madrid, alongside Julian Alvarez, Nahuel Molina, Antoine Griezmann, and Thomas Lemar.
