The end of the season was nothing to brag about for manager Diego Simeone. – Atletico Madrid suffered an ignominious defeat away at the Estadio de la Cerámica against Villerreal and with that they became fourth place for the eternal third in La Liga.
Manchester United have had scouts in place this season to follow Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth. – In addition to reports about Sørloth, the scouts have reported home to Old Trafford about Marc Pubill.
Read: Note! The deadline to buy free Jose Mourinho for 6 million euros expired today morning
Marc Pubill has become one of the big revelations for Atlético Madrid this season. The full-back, who Diego Pablo Simeone has retrained as a centre-back, has had an extraordinary season – which has even secured him a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
His progress has been so rapid that there is already concern at the Metropolitano. The best clubs in Europe are following in his footsteps, his release clause is worth €80 million, and Manchester United seem willing to make a big effort to bring him to Old Trafford.
Simeone found an unexpected centre-back
Marc Pubill’s season has completely changed his status. He came to Atlético as a promising full-back with good physique, but has ended up as a very valuable asset in the red-and-white defence.
The great credit goes to Simeone, who saw in him the qualities to play as a centre-back. The Argentine coach believed that his speed, aggressiveness in duels and ability to correct in open spaces could be very successful in that position.
The investment paid off. Pubill has responded with maturity, concentration and an adaptability that has surprised even in the club. It’s not easy to change roles in a team that has as many defensive demands as Atlético, but the Catalan has risen to the challenge with impressive ease.
Consistent and reliable – now ready for the World Cup
His season has been characterized by stability. He has won duels, been reliable in ball distribution and shown personality in high-pressure matches. This development has opened the doors to the Spanish national team, where Luis de la Fuente has rewarded his progress with a World Cup selection.
For the player, being in Spain’s squad means the final confirmation that he has made a leap of quality. For Atlético, however, there is also a risk: the more visible his performance, the more difficult it will be to keep him.
United threatens to trigger release clause
Manchester United have become the most determined club in the battle for Pubill. At Old Trafford, they want to strengthen a defence that has had weaknesses for several seasons, and they see the Atlético player as an ideal piece to lead a new phase.
His profile is a perfect fit for the Premier League. He is fast, powerful, strong in physical duels and able to defend far from his own penalty area. In addition, the transition to centre-back has given him a versatility that every coach appreciates.
The problem for Atlético is that the €80 million release clause – although high – is not impossible for an English club. United have financial strength, and if they decide to bet everything, they could put significant pressure on the red-and-white club.
Other teams are also watching his progress, but United seem to have taken the lead. The club’s sporting needs, financial capacity and the need to rebuild the defence make them a real threat.
Atlético prepare to protect him
At the Metropolitano, they are aware of the danger. Losing Pubill after just one big season would be a hard blow, especially because Simeone sees him as a player with the potential to become a defensive reference for many years.
Atlético’s response has been quick. The club aims to protect the player with an improved contract that recognizes his new status in the squad. The plan is to increase his salary, strengthen his commitment – and if possible, further improve the buyout terms.
Pubill has gone from being a player for the future to becoming a strategic asset. His old age, achievements and versatility make him one of the most valuable players in Atlético’s project.
Will he choose United or stay in Madrid?
For now, the player is focusing on finishing the season well and preparing for the World Cup with Spain. But he knows that everything can change during the summer. A phone call from Manchester United, along with a very attractive sporting and financial offer, can make anyone hesitate.
Atlético will try to convince him that the best place to continue his growth is at the Metropolitano. Simeone has given him confidence, reshaped his career and offers him a significant role in a team that will continue to compete at the highest level.
Still, the fear exists. The Premier League has formidable strength, and United are ready to do anything. Pubill has become one of the defensive gems on the market, and Atlético are aware that they need to act quickly to avoid losing one of their big revelations.
Radiosporten: The New York Knicks finally ready for their first NBA Finals in 27 years
