Atlético reactivates interest in one of Simeone's old desires

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22/04/26 19:00:00

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The summer transfer market is starting to stir at the Metropolitano with a name that fits perfectly into the Uruguayan philosophy of grit and sacrifice. Atlético de Madrid has set its sights on the Uruguayan defender Mathías Olivera, whose situation at Napoli seems conducive to a change of scenery this April 2026.

The Italian club is currently seeking a profound restructuring of its squad to ease the wage burden and rejuvenate its defensive lines after an irregular season. In this context, the 28-year-old left-back has become a top priority for the Atlético's sporting direction and English side Nottingham Forest.

Diego Simeone has always valued the intensity and physical prowess of the Uruguayan international, who has already made 35 official appearances with the Celeste and scored two goals. His ability to adapt to different tactical schemes positions him as the ideal reinforcement to shore up a rear guard that has shown weaknesses during the current season.

The defensive versatility Mathías Olivera offers Cholo

Atlético de Madrid sees in this player a unique market opportunity, given that his versatility allows him to perform both as a full-back and a center-back. This duality is music to the ears of the Madrid technical staff, who are seeking solutions to the underperformance of some recent acquisitions like Matteo Ruggeri.

Mathías Olivera has played 29 official matches this season with Napoli, contributing two assists and a defensive solidity that doesn't go unnoticed. His contract in Italy runs until 2030, but the Naples club is willing to entertain offers around his current market value.

According to the latest reports from Transfermarkt, the defender's transfer is valued at around 15 million euros, a very competitive figure for the red-and-white coffers. Atlético de Madrid plans to initiate formal contacts in the coming weeks to prevent British competition from getting ahead in the final bidding.

The tactical fit of Mathías Olivera in the red-and-white scheme

The arrival of the former Getafe player would mean the return of a "dogged" profile that the Metropolitano fans have historically idolized. Atlético de Madrid needs depth on the left flank, especially if the anticipated departures materialize in the upcoming transfer market.

Mathías Olivera is well-versed in Spanish football after his previous stint in LaLiga, which would facilitate an immediate adaptation without the usual transition periods. The Uruguayan defender would view a return to the capital of Spain with great enthusiasm to join a project that consistently competes for European titles.

Napoli's management has realistically valued the player, seeking to facilitate a departure that benefits both parties before the preseason begins. For Atlético de Madrid, finalizing this agreement would mean securing a professional with proven experience in demanding competitions like the Italian Serie A.

The future of the left flank for the red-and-whites

Hansi Flick and other European coaches have praised the evolution of the Uruguayan, but it is Simeone who appears to have the emotional advantage to convince his fellow countryman. Atlético de Madrid trusts that the cultural factor and the presence of other Uruguayans in the Spanish league will ultimately tip the scales.

The operation is under constant monitoring, waiting for Napoli to give final approval to negotiate personal terms. It is expected that the official announcement may come before the start of summer tournaments so that the player can quickly join the group.

Atlético de Madrid continues to work discreetly but firmly to make Mathías Olivera the new guardian of the left flank at the Metropolitano. His signing would not only provide defensive security but also reinforce the combative spirit that defines the team's identity under the guidance of Cholo Simeone.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Atlético reactiva interés en un viejo deseo del Cholo Simeone