The 2023/24 season was a mix of highs and lows for Atlético Madrid. Finishing fourth in La Liga with 76 points and securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the 12th consecutive year the team demonstrated resilience and skill.
However, their performance, marked by 70 goals scored and 43 conceded, highlighted areas needing improvement. The season ended, with a strong 2-0 win against Real Sociedad, setting the stage for crucial summer changes.
Transfer Strategy
Atlético Madrid’s transfer strategy for 2024 is clear: overhaul the squad to strengthen it while maintaining a compact unit. Manager Diego Simeone and sporting director Andrea Berta are focused on both immediate and long-term goals.
This summer, they aim to balance departures with new signings, targeting specific positions to build a more robust and versatile team.
Colchoneros’ summer transfer window is poised to be a period of significant changes. By targeting key positions and ensuring a balance between experience and new talents, Diego Simeone aims to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe. With strategic signings and a clear vision, Atlético Madrid is set to strengthen its squad and aim for greater success in the upcoming season.
Squad Needs and Areas for Improvement
Defense
The defense is a primary focus. Atlético plans to bring in at least two central defenders. With players like Stefan Savić, Mario Hermoso, and Çağlar Söyüncü expected to leave, reinforcing the backline is crucial. Robin Le Normand from Real Sociedad and Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen are top targets to solidify the defense.
Midfield
The midfield requires a holding player to provide stability. Mats Wieffer from Feyenoord is the preferred choice to fill this role, adding depth and control to the midfield. Saúl Ñíguez’s potential departure means further reinforcements might be needed.
Attack
Up front, the need for a goal-scoring forward is evident, especially with Memphis Depay leaving. Alexander Sørloth and Artem Dovbyk are on Atlético’s radar, though budget constraints may affect these deals. Julián Álvarez from Manchester City is also a dream target, although his acquisition seems challenging.
Bench Depth
Strengthening the bench with versatile players who can offer competition and cover for various positions is essential. This includes finding a reliable backup for Nahuel Molina on the right and a left-sided central midfielder.
Potential Signings
Robin Le Normand
The 27-year-old Real Sociedad center-back is set to join Atlético for €30m. His defensive skills and experience in La Liga make him a valuable addition to the squad.
Alexander Sørloth
A priority target for the forward position, Sørloth’s physical presence and goal-scoring ability are seen as key to bolstering Atlético’s attack.
Mats Wieffer
Contacted during the winter transfer window, the Feyenoord midfielder is the top choice to bring stability and depth to the midfield.
Marcos Alonso
Expected to join from Barcelona, Alonso will replace Mario Hermoso and provide experience and versatility in defense.
Julián Álvarez
Although a challenging target, Atlético hopes to lure the Manchester City forward by promising a more significant role than he currently has at the Etihad Stadium.
Financial Capabilities
Atlético Madrid operates with limited funds, but their consistent Champions League qualification provides a financial boost. This, combined with expected high-earning departures, gives them a workable budget for the necessary squad overhaul. Adhering to Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations remains crucial, so the club must balance its spending with income from player sales and other revenues.