The 3 candidates of Atlético to replace Antoine Griezmann

The end of an era looms at the Metropolitano with the imminent departure of Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City in the MLS at the end of this season.

This vacancy forces Atlético de Madrid to scour the market for a creative attacking midfielder to complement the striker alongside Julián Álvarez.

The sporting direction expects significant income from possible sales of figures like Álex Baena or Thiago Almada, enabling a strong investment this summer.

Three players have emerged as favorites to assume the role of the offensive link: Julio Enciso, and Ibrahim Maza and Kang-In Lee.

The profile sought by the coaching staff demands a standout player, capable of creating play between the lines and providing a goal-scoring contribution to mitigate the absence of the Frenchman.

Atlético de Madrid and the desire for Julio Enciso

Atlético de Madrid has maintained a sustained interest in Julio Enciso for years, who at 22 is shining brightly at French club Strasbourg.

The Paraguayan international boasts an enviable record this season, with nine goals and three assists in thirty official matches played.

His ability to disrupt in the final third and his competitive price tag, around 20 million euros, make him a very appealing market option.

Simeone particularly values the intensity and verticality that the Paraguayan attacker could bring to the two-striker system planned for the next season.

Ibrahim Maza and Kang-In Lee: young talent and LaLiga experience

Ibrahim Maza has become one of the big revelations at Bayer Leverkusen, attracting the interest of Atlético de Madrid thanks to his versatility and vision.

The 20-year-old Algerian attacking midfielder has scored four goals and provided five assists, solidifying himself as a future prospect with a market value of 40 million.

On the other hand, the option of Kang-In Lee gains strength due to his discontent at PSG, where he has not managed to establish himself as a definite starter under the guidance of Luis Enrique.

The 25-year-old South Korean is well-acquainted with the Spanish league, a crucial factor for Atlético de Madrid seeking immediate adaptation after the departure of their star.

With an estimated price of 30 million, Lee would provide the associative fluency the team needs to link the midfield with the attacking front.

A focus on creativity in the attacking line

The choice of Griezmann's successor is no small task, as it involves replacing the institution's all-time leading goal scorer in a transitional moment.

The Madrid team prioritizes a player who has already demonstrated leadership qualities and maturity in highly demanding European leagues over the past few months of competition.

Julio Enciso represents explosiveness, Ibrahim Maza unlimited potential, and Kang-In Lee the certainty of a player already proven in Spanish stadiums.

Negotiations will intensify as the summer market approaches, aiming to finalize the deal before other continental giants interfere in the club's sports planning.

Atlético de Madrid must make the right move to maintain its competitive status and ensure that the partnership with Julián Álvarez is lethal in 2026.

The fans eagerly await the announcement of a new idol to take up the mantle from the "Little Prince" and lead the Colchonero offensive towards European glory.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 3 candidatos del Atlético para suplir a Antoine Griezmann