Atlético de Madrid have moved quickly this past week to close several signings. After announcing Le Normand and Sorloth, the red-and-whites accelerated in order to sign a midfielder and a forward. Gallagher and Julián Álvarez have been chosen and both are already in Madrid to be announced as new Atlético players.
However, Simeone still needs a left-footed centre-back to replace Mario Hermoso and a new midfielder would be a good idea. Javi Guerra was almost signed, but with the arrival of Gallagher the negotiations broke down completely. The Argentine coach does not have any defensive pivot in his squad and there is a player he likes a lot and who is close to joining another club.
The desire that fades away
After signing Vermeeren, Atletico Madrid launched a bid for Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley in January. The Danish player has been one of the most outstanding players in Europe, despite not playing in one of the top five leagues. He scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists last season, playing as a midfielder, defensive midfielder and attacking midfielder.
Despite not being a typical defensive midfielder, O'Riley can play in that position and perform at a high level thanks to his physicality. Simeone was impressed with him during the Champions League and asked Gil Marín to make an effort. However, according to Matteo Moretto, Atalanta want to close his signing as soon as possible.
The current Europa League champions want to take a step up in quality to be able to compete in the Champions League. A few weeks ago they launched an offer of just under 20 million euros, but it was rejected, now they have put 23 on the table.
Gil Marín out of the bidding
The Italian journalist has also commented that Brighton want to take the Celtic midfielder from Glasgow. The English are very interested and will be tough competition for the Italians. As for Atlético de Madrid, Gil Marín is currently completely out of the bidding, as he has other objectives in mind.
At the moment, the highest priority for Atlético is to secure a replacement for Mario Hermosos and Gil Marín knows it. The club's sporting management is waiting for certain sales to be made in order to be able to address the signing of David Hancko. O'Riley's future is between Italy or England, so Simeone has missed one of his objectives for months.