Atlético de Madrid will make their league debut this coming Monday against Villarreal, although they have not yet finalised their squad. Right now, the priority for the red-and-white team is to be able to finish strengthening their defence. All they need is a left-footed centre-back to consider that the defence has improved considerably in this transfer window.
Last season was the worst since Simeone took over as coach in terms of goals conceded. Therefore, the Argentine's main priority was to bring in several players to restore his strength in the defensive zone. The first to arrive was Robin Le Normand to replace Stefan Savic, but it is still not known who will replace Mario Hermoso .
Matteo Moretto reveals the options
One of the reliable journalists when it comes to the transfer market is the Italian, who is very close to the current affairs of Atlético de Madrid. As for the incorporation of a new left-footed defender, there are already four names on the table at the Metropolitano offices. The favourite remains David Hancko , who has put a lot of pressure on Feyenoord to accept the offer from the red-and-white team.
However, negotiations between the two clubs have not come to fruition and the Atlético players are already considering alternatives. Another of the most popular players is Piero Hincapié , a key player in the Bayer Leverkusen team that won the Bundesliga last season. The Ecuadorian will not be a cheap signing, as he is one of the biggest prospects in world football in terms of defence.
Finally, Atlético de Madrid are reportedly considering Aymeric Laporte and Lenglet , both of whom are more experienced. The Spanish international won the European Championship this summer and wants to return to elite football and leave Saudi Arabia. Lenglet, on the other hand, has no place at FC Barcelona and has reportedly put his move to Villarreal on hold while waiting for Atlético de Madrid.
La Liga begins
Atlético Madrid will make their debut on Monday in an away game against Villarreal, a match in which they will still need reinforcements. Obviously, unless a miracle happens, everything points to Simeone not having his full defence yet , although he has alternatives in his squad. For now, the red-and-whites are hoping that Feyenoord will reject their latest offer for David Hancko in order to launch an offensive for one of the alternatives.
Meanwhile, the team's new signings are already being presented at the Metropolitano , pending the event next week. Atlético de Madrid will hold a joint presentation with all of its signings in front of its home crowd next Wednesday. By that time, Simeone hopes to have his squad finalised and ready for a season in which they will have to compete for all the titles.