Pep Guardiola wants to keep Simeone's favourite midfielder

Pep Guardiola wants to keep Simeone and Atlético's favourite midfielder

The Spanish coach will not make it easy for one of the midfielders of the future to leave

Atlético de Madrid, under the direction of Diego Simeone, has had a summer of signings that has left many fans satisfied. With the arrival of several players who have strengthened the different lines of the team, the red-and-white team is preparing to compete in all competitions in the 2024/25 season. However, there is one shortcoming that experts point out: Atlético de Madrid still has two positions to reinforce before the market closes.

Latest reinforcements

In defence, despite having a solid base of players such as Giménez , Le Normand and Witsel , a certain fragility has been noted. Simeone is looking for a centre-back who brings experience and solvency to complement the starters. A reinforcement that would allow Atlético de Madrid 's defence to recover its well-known solidity.

A man wearing an Atlético de Madrid shirt smiles and gives a thumbs-up gesture in front of a blue background with the Vithas and Invictum logos.
Robin Le Normand was Atlético de Madrid's first signing | Atlético de Madrid

But the position that is most worrying is that of central midfield, for which Cholo Simeone is fighting to make a final effort. Although Koke continues to be a key piece, his physical wear and tear is noticeable in seasons with many games, as this one will be. Rodrigo de Paul has shown glimpses of his best version, but has not yet reached the consistency that Atlético de Madrid needs.

Simeone wants Matheus Nunes... But Guardiola won't make it easy

For this reason, Simeone insists on the need for a midfielder who can offer defensive balance and, at the same time, a clean way to get the ball out. It is in this context that the figure of Matheus Nunes emerges, the Portuguese midfielder who has caught the attention of the Argentine coach. At just 26 years old , Matheus Nunes has proven to be one of the most complete midfielders of his generation.

His ability to break lines with his dribbling, coupled with his intelligence with the ball, and great versatility on the pitch, have made him a very interesting player. Atlético de Madrid , aware that the transfer market is coming to an end, have set their sights on him as a target to close their squad. However, the operation will not be easy, as Pep Guardiola wants to keep him in his squad.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also identified Nunes as an ideal piece for his project. Guardiola sees Nunes as a player who can provide freshness and legs to the team in moments of weakness. This interest from the Spanish coach has complicated the plans of Atletico Madrid , who see one of their main targets moving away.

Although the Rojiblancos are willing to make a significant financial effort, competing with Pep Guardiola's desire is very difficult. Matheus Nunes is evaluating his options, aware that this next move could define his career. While Atletico Madrid look to finalize their squad with the finishing touches, Matheus Nunes' future remains uncertain.