The transfer market has brought news that changes the landscape of Spanish soccer. Atlético de Madrid has secured a top-level signing for next season. Diego Simeone can now count on a key player who arrives to strengthen the midfield and, at the same time, deprive other major rivals of a highly desired gem.
A signing that breaks the bank
After weeks of negotiations, Atlético de Madrid paid close to €60 million for a young talent who stood out in La Liga. The transfer, including fixed and variable amounts, totals nearly €55 million, a major effort to compete with Europe's top clubs.
The player has already passed his medical and signed at the club's offices, finalizing a deal that took weeks. This move makes it clear that Simeone wants to renew his squad with quality footballers with potential, seeking a balance between youth and experience.
Álex Baena, the perfect partner who slips away from Lewandowski
The main figure in this signing is Álex Baena, a midfielder with a special talent for linking up in attack. An international with Spain, Baena has made a name for himself at Villarreal thanks to his ability to create play, provide assists, and pose a threat arriving from the second line. During the last season, he was key for the Yellow Submarine to secure its place in the Champions League, contributing not only goals but also many assists.
One of the great stories of this signing is the connection Baena will have with Alexander Sorloth, another new Atlético player. Both played together at Villarreal and their understanding was clear: Baena provided as many as 14 assists to the Norwegian striker. Without a doubt, this partnership already works and promises to give Atlético a qualitative leap in attack.
For Robert Lewandowski, this signing represents a major loss. Baena was the ideal partner to boost his performance, a player capable of understanding him perfectly and generating many scoring chances. FC Barcelona, another major contender, couldn't compete financially, which leaves Atlético as the big winner in this deal.
The reinforcement Simeone needed
With Álex Baena, Atlético not only gains quality but also freshness and versatility in its midfield. Alongside Pablo Barrios, both Olympic champions, the team is betting on a future with the talent to shine on the biggest stages.
Baena arrives with determination and a clear message: he turned down a lucrative offer from Arab soccer to grow and play at the highest level in Europe. That ambition and commitment are exactly what Simeone wants in his locker room.