Atlético Madrid is reportedly revisiting its interest in Argentine attacking midfielder Thiago Almada, a move that could bring the 24-year-old World Cup winner to the Spanish capital. This development emerges amidst a complex landscape surrounding the player`s current situation and future.
Almada`s recent path has been a rather circuitous one, marked by his loan from Brazilian side Botafogo to French club Lyon during the latter half of the 2024-2025 season. This arrangement was notably facilitated within the framework of Eagle Football, a multi-club network that holds stakes in both Botafogo and Lyon. The loan itself served, in part, as a mechanism for Lyon to navigate transfer restrictions imposed by financial regulators (the DNCG), providing a prime example of contemporary football`s intricate multi-club strategies.
Now, as the temporary arrangement concludes, Almada finds himself waiting for clarity on his next step. While Lyon reportedly owns his economic rights within the Eagle Football portfolio, a further loan spell at the French club is considered unlikely. Instead, Botafogo, his contracted club, is understood to be tasked with finding a more permanent solution for his future.
Adding another layer to the situation, Portuguese giants SL Benfica had also been linked with Almada. However, reports suggest that Benfica is hesitant to submit an offer exceeding €30 million, potentially reducing their standing in the race for his signature.
This financial hesitance elsewhere appears to open the door for Atlético Madrid. Sources indicate that signing for Diego Simeone`s Colchoneros has rapidly become a very credible option for Almada in recent hours. Given his profile as a creative attacking midfielder and his status as a World Cup winner, Almada represents a potentially significant addition for Atlético, should the club successfully navigate the player`s multi-layered ownership structure and agree on terms.
While the final destination remains fluid, the focus is increasingly shifting towards the Spanish capital as a potential landing spot for the Argentine playmaker as Botafogo seeks to finalize his next move.
