Simeone in the foreground with Manuel Pellegrini in the background with his arms crossed

Manuel Pellegrini calls Simeone and does him the favor of the year: he wants him in January

The Seville club is keeping a close eye on one of Simeone's discards

The transfer market is always full of surprises and unexpected moves. In this case, Betis has once again set its sights on Javi Galán, a player who seems to be on the ropes. Manuel Pellegrini has shown renewed interest in the left-back, who could be one of the big deals of the next winter transfer market.

Two soccer players compete for the ball while the public watches from the stands.
Javi Galán in a match | Atlético de Madrid

Javi Galán, who arrived at Atlético de Madrid in the summer of 2023 after standing out at Celta de Vigo, has not managed to establish himself in the team from Madrid. Although his performance at Celta had been notable, his adaptation to Atlético has been complicated. Last season, Galán was loaned to Real Sociedad, where he played a relevant role, but this was not enough for the San Sebastian team to opt for his permanent purchase.

No gap

Despite his quality and potential, Galán has not managed to make a place for himself in Diego Simeone's plans. The lack of opportunities in the first team has led to his name appearing on the list of players who are expendable for Atlético de Madrid. In the last days of the transfer market, Galatasaray showed interest in the player, but in the end, Galán opted to stay in Spain.

Galán with Atleti | Twitter, @Atleti

Javi Galán has a contract with Atlético de Madrid until June 2026. His market value is estimated at around 7 million euros, but the current circumstances could lead to the club being willing to negotiate his departure for a lower amount. The main objective for Atlético would be to reduce the wage bill and free up a place in the squad for new reinforcements.

Betis has been following him for a long time

Betis, under the direction of Manuel Pellegrini, have put Javi Galán on their agenda for the next winter transfer market. Pellegrini had indicated the signing of Galán as a priority after the departure of Juan Miranda, who left the club in search of new opportunities. In the last transfer window, Betis had to settle for players Perraud and Ricardo Rodríguez, who have not completely convinced the Chilean coach.

Image of Javi Galán in training with Atlético de Madrid
Galán before a match | Europa Press

Galán's arrival at Betis could be an ideal solution to strengthen the defence of the Seville team. With his experience in the Spanish League and his ability at left back, Galán could bring quality and stability to Betis' defence. Galán's incorporation could also offer Pellegrini more tactical and strategic options to face the matches in the second half of the season.