Simeone points out the brain he wants at Atlético

The Argentine is once again focusing on a footballer who would solve all their problems in the middle of the field

Héctor Andreu | 21 Jun 2026 | 09.46
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Simeone wants Alexi García at Atlético / RTVE
Simeone wants Alexi García at Atlético / RTVE

Aleix García has reappeared on Atlético Madrid's transfer radar at a crucial moment in the market. The Spanish midfielder has just completed a season of significant impact in Germany, where he has established himself as one of the most reliable pieces of Bayer Leverkusen and as an increasingly interesting option to strengthen the midfield of the red and white team.

The 28-year-old player is not a new name for Atleti's sports management. There were previous contacts, with the player himself acknowledging phone calls, but the deal never quite progressed. Now, with Atlético seeking balance, playmaking ability, and competitive experience, his candidacy resurfaces without much fanfare.

Aleix García, a standout season at Bayer Leverkusen

Aleix García's season explains why his name has reemerged. The midfielder has played 50 official matches: 33 in the Bundesliga, 12 in the Champions League, and five in the German Cup. In total, he has accumulated 4,160 minutes, with six goals and eleven assists, impressive figures for a player of his profile.

His impact goes beyond mere statistics. The Spaniard ended the season included in the Bundesliga's ideal XI, with an average rating of 7.45 on SofaScore, the highest among midfielders in his position. This consistent performance has earned him an important status within Bayer Leverkusen, the club he joined in 2024 from Girona.

The German club paid around €18 million for his signing back then. Two years later, his sporting value has increased, and his contract until 2029 gives the club room to negotiate from a position of strength. Nevertheless, his potential departure does not seem impossible if a convincing offer arises.

Atlético Madrid seeks a more affordable option for its midfield

Atlético Madrid is considering several names to reinforce the midfield, but not all fit economically. For instance, Morten Hjulmand operates in figures around €45 million, a much higher amount than what Leverkusen could demand for the Spaniard.

In this context, Aleix García emerges as a more accessible alternative. His release clause could be around €25 million, although in Germany, there is talk of a slightly higher valuation, close to €30 million. Nevertheless, it remains a more feasible operation compared to other options on Atleti's list.

For Simeone, his profile fits for several reasons. He is a player with good technical skills, tactical awareness, long-range shooting ability, capacity to organize from the back, and experience in top-level competitions. Additionally, he is well-versed in LaLiga, where he already shone with Girona before moving to the Bundesliga.

A return to LaLiga that entices the player

Aleix García himself has never hidden his belief in his ability to play for one of the big LaLiga clubs. In an interview with AS months ago, he admitted the interest from Atlético and made it clear that, although he is happy in Germany, returning to LaLiga in an ambitious project would be an appealing challenge.

This predisposition could be crucial if the red and white club decides to move forward. The player is comfortable at Bayer Leverkusen, but the option of returning to Spain and competing under Simeone's guidance holds evident sporting and emotional appeal.

While not a closed deal or an imminent move, it is a real possibility in the market. Atlético needs to strengthen a key area, and the Spaniard brings performance, experience, and a reasonable cost.

Thus, Aleix García returns to the spotlight. Without major headlines, without a rushed negotiation, and without breaking his commitment to the German club, but with the right profile to become one of the names to watch in Atlético Madrid's summer.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Simeone señala al cerebro que quiere en el Atlético