Image of Simeone and Koke in a montage, both from Atlético de Madrid

Pitcher of cold water at Atlético: Simeone stops the signing that Koke liked the most

Atlético has finally ruled out the signing of a young Spanish midfielder

Surprise and disappointment have invaded Atlético de Madrid and its fans after learning that Diego Simeone has decided to stop the signing of Javi Guerra at the last moment. The promising midfielder, who was in the Colchonero club's sights, will not wear the red and white shirt, despite the fact that Koke had shown interest in his arrival.

The missed opportunity

Javi Guerra , Valencia CF player, was seen as a strategic addition to reinforce Atlético de Madrid's midfield. With his youth and talent, Guerra was a bet for the future that fit perfectly into the club's plans. Koke, captain of Atlético, saw Javi Guerra as a perfect companion and a great substitute for himself in the future.

A soccer player wearing the Valencia CF uniform on the field.
Javi Guerra | Europapress

Simeone chose his favorite

For weeks it has been known that Simeone was very interested in signing the English midfielder, Connor Gallagher . At 24 years old, he already knows what it means to be important in a big club, like Chelsea, and he was called up to the European Championship. His physique and arrival in the rival area is something that Atlético de Madrid needs to compete in the best way in Europe.

A soccer player in a blue uniform celebrates a goal on the field while raising a finger, with a crowd of spectators in the background.
Gallagher in a match | Europa Press

After several days waiting for a response from the player, the Englishman gave his approval to the operation. He traveled to Madrid last night and is already signing his contract and undergoing a medical examination, to the detriment of Javi Guerra.

The natural Koke substitute

By characteristics, Javi Guerra was a natural substitute for Koke , since he is more of a touch interior than a defensive one. Simeone wanted them both, but he knew that Gallagher needed him more today to match himself physically with the best clubs. It seemed that both could arrive, but Valencia issued an ultimatum to Atlético de Madrid and they did not accept.

Javi Guerra | Europa Press

Javi Guerra, who was ready to travel to Madrid and play with Koke and Simeone, finally had to unpack. The young Spaniard, for the moment, will not move from Valencia and there are already other big clubs interested in him.

The Champions zone tempts you

Real Madrid has been tracking the Spanish midfielder for some time, but he is not a priority signing for them. However, Real Sociedad and Girona did offer for him a few weeks ago, trying to close his incorporation. Guerra was not very willing to accept any of these offers, as he did not consider it a big enough leap to leave his home.