Reports emanating from France suggest that Atlético Madrid are giving serious consideration to a move for Argentine attacking midfielder Thiago Almada. The 24-year-old, a member of Argentina`s victorious 2022 World Cup squad, finds himself in a somewhat unique position regarding his club future.
Almada spent the latter half of the 2024-2025 season on loan at Olympique Lyonnais. This arrangement was notably facilitated due to Lyon`s operational structure under the Eagle Football ownership group, which also includes Botafogo, Almada`s parent club. The loan provided Lyon a mechanism to acquire the player`s services during a period when they faced restrictions imposed by French football`s financial watchdog (DNCG).
However, a repeat loan spell with Lyon appears improbable. With his contract still held by Brazilian side Botafogo, the responsibility for identifying and securing Almada`s next permanent destination reportedly rests with the South American club. This situation has created a period of uncertainty as potential pathways for the player are evaluated.
Several clubs have naturally been linked with a talent of Almada`s profile. SL Benfica were understood to hold an interest, though it is reported that the Portuguese giants were unlikely to table an offer exceeding €30 million. This potential valuation ceiling on Benfica`s part could prove strategically advantageous for other interested parties.
According to the latest information, this specific market dynamic might be playing directly into Atlético Madrid`s hands. Signing for Diego Simeone`s side is now described as having become a “very credible option” for Almada in recent days. The technical requirements of Simeone`s system, often demanding versatility and tactical intelligence from attacking players, could represent an interesting challenge and opportunity for the young Argentine.
As the transfer window progresses, the path for Thiago Almada remains to be definitively set. Yet, the emergence of Atlético Madrid as a strong, credible potential destination underscores the ongoing market evaluation of a player whose capabilities have been recognized at the highest international level.
