Atlético Madrid are preparing for a significant reshuffle at the back in what will be the first summer overseen by sporting director Mateu Alemany. After already bringing in David Hancko, Marc Pubill and Matteo Rugger this year, further defensive changes appear likely.
According to RadioMarca, the club is exploring alternatives for several current defenders. One name under close observation is Agustin Giay of Palmeiras. The right-back has been monitored for years and is viewed as a potential successor to Nahuel Molina, who is among three players that could be allowed to depart.
Possible exits on the horizon
Journalist Matteo Moretto reports that Atlético are open to offers for Molina, Clement Lenglet and Jose Maria Gimenez. Molina has not fully delivered on expectations since arriving from Udinese for €20 million, with Marcos Llorente currently preferred on the right flank. The 27-year-old already has proposals to move elsewhere.
Regarding Gimenez, reports suggest that both the defender and the club are ready to part ways following the World Cup, with interest emerging from Argentina and Italy. Lenglet, who signed a three-year deal last summer after leaving Barcelona on a free transfer, has seen his involvement reduced following Hancko’s arrival and Pubill’s rise.
Molina reflects on his journey
Molina is entering his fourth campaign in Madrid and will have just one year remaining on his contract next season. Given that situation, Atlético may consider selling him rather than risk losing him without a fee.
The World Cup winner admitted that adapting to life in the Spanish capital proved challenging after a remarkable run of international triumphs. Speaking to ‘Agusneta y Leo DElia’, as cited by Marca, he described feeling overwhelmed by the rapid succession of titles, travel and pressure.
He insisted it was not due to diminished drive but rather the speed at which events unfolded. Now, he says, he is able to appreciate those achievements far more, enjoying memories and conversations about that successful period in a way he could not at the time.