Atletico Madrid are determined to sign a new defensive midfielder, and in the coming weeks, they have a good chance of securing their first goal.
It’s no secret that Atleti have been eager to sign a “pivot” (defensive midfielder) for over 12 months. Diego Simeone wants a new player to compete with Pablo Barrios, Rodrigo De Paul and club captain Koke Resurreccion, and in recent weeks Johnny Cardoso has been confirmed as the main target.
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Personal terms have already been agreed with Cardoso, who is prioritising a move to Atleti, despite Real Betis already having a deal in place with Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. Soon, an agreement could be reached between the two La Liga clubs.
Atletico Madrid and Real Betis prepare negotiations for Johnny Cardoso
As reported by Diario AS, representatives of Atleti and Betis are due to meet next week, with the intention of reaching an agreement. Currently, there is a difference of €10 million in the assessment, but the two clubs are expected to find a compromise during the upcoming negotiations.
Betis wants €40 million for Cardoso, who was signed for €6 million 18 months ago. Atleti have no intention of paying that much, but there is a belief that Los Verdiblancos will lower the asking price.
Cardoso has been an outstanding player for Betis since his arrival in January 2024, and there is no doubt that he would be an excellent signing for Atleti. Los Colchoneros are currently focused on the Club World Cup, but with a possible exit in the group stage before the final round on Monday, there could be more focus on these negotiations for the US national team.
It remains to be seen if Atleti can agree on a deal for Cardoso, who is definitely needed at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for next season and beyond.
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