Atlético de Madrid close to finalizing signing of this left-back

Atlético de Madrid is already planning in advance for the next transfer market, and one of the clear priorities is to strengthen the left flank of the defense. Cholo Simeone wants more competition in that area of the field, aware that it is a key position in his system. The great desire of the red and white club is Carlos Romero, a full-back who belongs to Villarreal and is currently on loan at Espanyol.

However, the operation seems very complicated. Villarreal refers to the 45 million euro release clause, a figure that Atlético considers completely out of the market for a player who has not yet established himself in the elite. Faced with this scenario, the Metropolitano's offices are already considering more realistic alternatives, and one of the names that has gained strength in recent weeks is Mario Mitaj.

Carlos Romero, an almost impossible wish

Carlos Romero fits perfectly into the profile that Atlético de Madrid is looking for: an intense, attacking full-back aggressive in defense and capable of joining the attack. His loan spell at Espanyol has allowed him to take a significant competitive leap, and many top clubs have taken note of his progress.

However, Villarreal is not willing to let him go. The Yellow Submarine considers Romero a strategic asset and only contemplates his departure through the full payment of his release clause. With 45 million euros on the table, Atlético has been forced to cool its interest and focus its efforts on other options more in line with its transfer policy.

Mario Mitaj, a market opportunity

In this context, the name of Mario Mitaj emerges strongly. The 22-year-old left-back, born in Greece but representing Albania internationally, is currently at Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, a club where he has continued to grow in a competitive environment different from the European one.

Mitaj stands out for his physical strength, ability to advance with the ball, and defensive reliability. Despite his youth, he already has international experience, and his profile aligns with the idea of rejuvenating the squad without sacrificing immediate performance. Additionally, his potential for improvement is immense, which particularly appeals to the red and white technical staff.

The Premier League comes into play

Atlético de Madrid's interest is not exclusive. Several Premier League clubs in England have closely monitored the progress of Mario Mitaj and have already made initial inquiries. The English market, with greater financial capacity, could complicate the operation if it becomes competitive in the bidding.

However, the Spanish team relies on the attractiveness of its sports project. The opportunity to compete in LaLiga and the Champions League, under the guidance of Diego Simeone, is a compelling argument for a young player looking to establish himself in European elite football. Furthermore, with a price tag of around 10 million euros, the deal becomes a strategic opportunity that is hard to pass up.

A key decision for the new Atlético

Strengthening the left flank is not a whim but a structural necessity for Atlético de Madrid. Simeone wants to regain the defensive reliability that has historically characterized his team but without sacrificing width on the wings, an increasingly crucial aspect in modern football.

Mario Mitaj represents that balance between present and future. With an affordable cost and a profile with great potential, the Albanian full-back emerges as one of the most interesting bets for the upcoming transfer market. If Atlético manages to outdo the English competition, it could secure a signing that, without making a media splash, may turn out to be one of the most profitable operations of the summer.