The offseason deals continue for Atlético Madrid as they look to revamp their team after a disappointing 2024/25 season.
The Spanish giants look set to sell Rodrigo de Paul to Inter Miami but they have agreed to bring in his international teammate, Thiago Almada. The 24-year-old Argentine will arrive from Botafogo, although he spent half of last season on loan at Lyon in Ligue 1. The Athletic reports that the deal is done, with just a player medical still to be completed.
The attacking midfielder has had a circuitous route to Madrid, starting his career with Vélez Sarsfield before signing for MLS team Atlanta United. He spent three seasons with Atlanta, winning the MLS Newcomer of the Year Award in 2023. In JUly 2024 Almada moved to Botafogo on a worth $21 million, with a further $9 in potential add-ons.
He has already played ten times for the senior Argentina national team and scored four goals. Almada was a part of the squad that won the World Cup in 2022. In doing so, he became the first active MLS player to win the World Cup.
During his brief spell with Botafogo, Almada helped the Brazilian giants to the Serie A title and the first Copa Libertadores triumph in club history.
Almada has the chance to link up with a few of his international teammates in the Spanish capital. Julián Álvarez and Nahuel Molina are both key players for Atlético and head coach Diego Simeone is another icon of Argentinian soccer.