Transfer Budget Tied to Outgoings
Atlético Madrid’s capacity to strengthen their squad this summer depends on generating substantial income through player sales. Sporting director Mateu Alemany can only pursue further inbound transfers after securing significant funds from outgoing business, despite the club having already completed deals for Alejandro Grimaldo and Kang-in Lee.
Marca report that the Spanish side require strategic departures to balance their books. While several players face uncertain futures, the sales of Alexander Sørloth and Thiago Almada are viewed as essential to providing the financial muscle needed for additional reinforcements.
Key Departures
Norwegian striker Sørloth, aged 30, has emerged as a primary target for Serie A clubs. His exit is considered crucial for funding a new centre-forward. Similarly, Argentine midfielder Almada, 24, has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia. The proceeds from his potential transfer would enable Atlético to source a versatile attacking option capable of covering multiple positions across the front line. Both players are currently competing at the World Cup, and their performances there could influence their market value.
These two sales represent a fundamentally different order of income compared to other potential exits, and are the deals most likely to determine how aggressively Alemany can operate in the remaining weeks of the window.
Defensive Reshuffle
In central defence, José Giménez faces an uncertain future despite his status as club captain and 13-year association with the Metropolitano. The 29-year-old Uruguayan has been hampered by injuries, playing well below the threshold required for a reliable rotation option. While the club holds deep institutional respect for the defender, they are prepared to sanction a sale if a sizeable offer materialises from interested parties in Argentina or Italy. With two years remaining on his contract, Giménez is reportedly seeking a “new start” following the World Cup.
Clément Lenglet’s situation is more awkward. The 29-year-old Frenchman, signed just one year ago on a three-year deal for approximately €3 million, has fallen to fifth-choice status following a series of errors in key matches. Atlético may terminate his contract—described as giving him his “freedom letter”—though this depends entirely on the player’s willingness to accept an early exit. Such a move would free up squad space but would not generate transfer revenue.
The collective outcome of these various exit negotiations will ultimately dictate the extent of Atlético’s summer recruitment.