Atletico Madrid is seeking to strengthen its defense with the signing of Cristian Romero, after Thiago Almada's exit, who will join River Plate for 20 million euros. The transfer of Almada, who began the 2025/26 season as a starter under Diego Simeone, but a muscle injury in September interrupted his adaptation and cost him five weeks, has freed up space in the Rojiblancos' salary. The Madrid club has reached an agreement with River Plate for the transfer of Almada, who will return to South America a year after joining the Colchoneros from the Brazilian Botafogo.
What happened?
Atletico Madrid has reached an agreement with River Plate for the transfer of Thiago Almada in a deal worth 20 million euros. Almada will return to South America a year after joining the Colchoneros from the Brazilian Botafogo.
Why it matters for Atletico Madrid?
The exit of Almada has freed up space in the Rojiblancos' salary, which could allow them to sign Cristian Romero, a player that Diego Simeone has identified as his main target in defense.
What comes next?
Atletico Madrid is seeking to strengthen its defense with the signing of Cristian Romero, after the exit of Thiago Almada. The Madrid club has reached an agreement with River Plate for the transfer of Almada, who will return to South America a year after joining the Colchoneros from the Brazilian Botafogo.
The transfer structure and buy-back clause
River Plate is paying 20 million euros for 100% of Almada's federative rights. Atletico will receive 10 million euros for their 50% share, while Lyon will receive the other 10 million euros. Atletico have retained a 40 million euro buy-back clause that will remain valid until December 2027.
Wage space for Romero pursuit
The transfer of Almada, along with Nahuel Molina's proposed move to Roma and Matteo Ruggeri's proposed transfer to Aston Villa, could clear around 14 million euros in gross salary from Atletico's wage bill. The outgoing business could create space for Atletico's pursuit of Cristian Romero, a player Simeone has identified as his leading defensive target.
Romero bid reported
According to Marca, Atletico have submitted a first 30 million euro offer to Tottenham and are prepared to go as high as 40 million euros. Other reporting has described the club as preparing a 30 million euro offer, while Tottenham were reported to have accepted a 40 million euro offer from Inter Milan.
Current situation of Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid is currently in the 4th position in La Liga, with 57 points, 17 wins, 6 draws and 8 losses in 31 games. They have scored 51 goals and conceded 32 goals in the current season, with a goal difference of +19. They are 22 points behind the leaders Barcelona. Their next game is on February 21, 2027, against Elche at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
