Simeone wants a former Real Madrid player for Atlético's defense

Simeone has asked the Atlético de Madrid board for the signing of a top-level defender for the next season.

Javier Parra Peña | 11 Mar 2026 | 23.30
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<p>Simeone wants a former Real Madrid player for Atlético's defense</p>
<p>Simeone wants a former Real Madrid player for Atlético's defense</p>

The summer market of 2026 is starting to heat up with a standout name on the agenda of Atlético de Madrid. The Colchoneros are looking to strengthen their defense in anticipation of potential departures of key players like José María Giménez and Robin Le Normand after the season.

Mario Gila, a 25-year-old center-back currently shining at Lazio, is the chosen piece to provide the necessary defensive quality leap. The Catalan defender has shown remarkable maturity beyond his years in Serie A, becoming one of the most sought-after defenders.

However, Atletico Madrid is not alone in this pursuit, as Serie A giants like AC Milan lead the race. The Rossoneri had already attempted his signing in the previous winter market and seem to have an edge in negotiations with the player's close circle.

Inter Milan is also monitoring the situation of a player who believes his time at the Stadio Olimpico has come to an end. With a contract running until June 2027, the defender has no intention to extend, making an agreed-upon departure this summer more feasible.

Atlético de Madrid and the pursuit of Mario Gila

Atlético de Madrid needs fresh blood in their backline to maintain competitiveness in domestic and Champions League competitions. The departure of key players would compel Simeone to seek a rapid, strong profile with excellent ball distribution, like the Madrid-born player.

A product of Real Madrid's academy, the club still holds economic rights over the player, adding spice to the transfer. His market value currently stands at around €30 million, reflecting his excellent performances in Italy.

However, rumors suggest the transfer could close for over €20 million if there is a willingness to negotiate. Gila landed in Rome in July 2022 and has since experienced a meteoric rise, though he is still awaiting a national team call-up.

The prospect of returning to Spain intrigues the player, especially to an ambitious project where he would have a leading role from day one. Milan's interest poses a significant threat, as the Lombard club aims to finalize the deal promptly to avoid bidding wars.

Mario Gila - Atlético de Madrid

A top-tier center-back for Simeone

The Madrid board believes that next season's sporting planning involves ensuring solidity near their own area without errors.

Mario Gila fits perfectly in a system of three central defenders or a back four, thanks to his versatility and great anticipation. Atlético Madrid understands they must act swiftly to avoid seeing AC Milan finalize the transfer.

Internal competition in the locker room would rise with a player who is familiar with the pressure of belonging to elite institutions. Despite not debuting for Spain's senior team yet, technical reports see him as a future regular in national team calls.

His time in Italy has given him remarkable tactical discipline, easing his immediate adaptation to Simeone's tactical scheme. The transfer market will decide, but Atletico's interest is real and aims to outmaneuver the most powerful Italian clubs.

The projection of the Lazio defender

The Metropolitano club is closely monitoring every move of Gila, knowing his incorporation would be a significant statement against their European rivals. The player's final decision will depend on the sporting project and the assurance of playing time the signing club can offer.

Atlético Madrid is confident that the appeal of the Spanish League will be sufficient to persuade the talented defender to return.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Simeone quiere a un ex Real Madrid para la defensa del Atlético

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