BIG TRANSFER NEWS: Atlético Negotiating Signing of Mikel Oyarzabal

The Basque forward is highly favored at the Metropolitano and they are trying to convince him, but he is not the only one interested

Héctor Andreu | 4 Jan 2026 | 10.35
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Oyarzabal is greatly liked by Atlético / Marca
Oyarzabal is greatly liked by Atlético / Marca

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Mikel Oyarzabal has once again caught the attention of two major European clubs in the midst of the winter transfer market. The forward from Real Sociedad is being closely followed by both Atlético de Madrid and Lazio, two teams looking to strengthen their offensive line with an experienced and immediately impactful profile.

The interest is not new, but it has intensified in recent weeks. Mikel Oyarzabal, captain and key player of the txuri-urdin squad, fits perfectly with what both projects are seeking, although his departure in January is shaping up to be an extremely complex operation.

Mikel Oyarzabal and Real Sociedad's Firm Stance

In San Sebastián, their position is very clear. Real Sociedad does not consider selling Mikel Oyarzabal during this winter market. The striker is a cornerstone of the sporting project, and his leadership both on and off the field is deemed irreplaceable in the short term.

Moreover, the Basque club believes that letting go of their franchise player in the middle of the season would be a significant blow. Therefore, any attempt will be met with resistance, even in the face of substantial offers.

Atlético de Madrid, Keeping a Close Eye on Their Attack's Future

Atlético de Madrid is the best-positioned club in this pursuit. At the Metropolitano, they highly value the profile of Mikel Oyarzabal, especially for his deep knowledge of LaLiga and his ability to perform immediately under pressure.

The potential departure of Alexander Sorloth at the end of the season has raised concerns in Atleti's planning. In that scenario, Mikel Oyarzabal emerges as the ideal replacement: versatile, competitive, and accustomed to taking on offensive responsibilities.

A Profile that Fits with Simeone

Diego Simeone seeks forwards who understand collective effort and do not shy away from defensive duties. Mikel Oyarzabal more than meets that requirement. His ability to play in various attacking positions makes him a very appealing option for Atlético de Madrid.

Furthermore, his experience in big stages and competitive maturity are strong arguments in the rojiblanco coaching staff's eyes, always keen on minimizing risks in key signings.

Lazio, Lurking from Italy

Meanwhile, Lazio is also carefully monitoring the situation. The Roman team is looking for a quality leap in their attack and believes that Mikel Oyarzabal could bring hierarchy, goals, and leadership to their sporting project.

However, the player's entourage conveys a clear message: Mikel Oyarzabal's priority is not to leave Spain in this market. This circumstance significantly reduces the Italian club's short-term options.

The Player's Decision, a Decisive Factor

Beyond the interest from Atlético de Madrid and Lazio, the role of Mikel Oyarzabal himself will be crucial. The Spanish international fully identifies with Real Sociedad and is not in a rush to change scenery in January.

The forward values sporting and personal stability and understands that a hasty move could affect his performance in a demanding season both at club and national team level.

A Scenario Pointing to Summer

Everything indicates that if any movement does happen, it will be more feasible in the summer. Real Sociedad would have more room to plan, and Atlético de Madrid could approach the operation with greater financial and sporting flexibility.

As of now, Real is refusing to negotiate Oyarzabal's exit, but they are well aware that both Atlético and Lazio will push hard to try to convince him.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, BOMBAZO: El Atlético negocia el fichaje de Mikel Oyarzabal