Atleti's January Transfer Window: More Questions Than Answers
With Pubill's emergence at centre-back and Giménez's return, Atlético Madrid's winter transfer plans are shifting focus from defensive reinforcements to other areas.
Mateu Alemany’s winter transfer plans for Atlético Madrid remain in flux as squad dynamics shift, with Marc Pubill’s emergence potentially changing the club’s January shopping list.
The Changing Defensive Picture
When Alemany arrived as Atlético’s new sporting director two months ago, securing a centre-back in January seemed the obvious priority. The defensive struggles during José Giménez’s absence had created a clear need. But the landscape has shifted dramatically in recent weeks.
Two key developments have altered the equation:
- Giménez’s return: The Uruguayan ‘Commander’ has stabilized the backline, and despite a minor setback putting him in the treatment room, he’s expected back at full strength after the Spanish Super Cup
- Pubill’s emergence: The former Almería man has been nothing short of a revelation at centre-back, earning four consecutive starts and performing brilliantly against Athletic Bilbao, PSV and Valencia
This unexpected defensive reinforcement from within has put centre-back recruitment on the back burner. Turkish defender Merih Demiral (27) had featured in Atleti’s reports as an attainable winter option, combining European experience with his contract situation at Al Ahli. However, with the club’s changing priorities, Demiral has since extended his Saudi contract until 2029.
Left-Back Now the Priority?
With centre-back concerns easing, Alemany might pivot to strengthening the left-back position. The current situation is far from ideal:
- David Hancko, initially viewed as a centre-back option, has become the most reliable left-back
- Lino Ruggeri handles the position in less critical fixtures but hasn’t fully solved the problem
January Departures Looking Certain
Two players appear destined for the January exit door:
- Javi Galán: Without minutes since October 5th and relegated to a bit-part role, his summer departure to Nottingham Forest collapsed at the deadline. His exit now seems inevitable and could create space for a new left-back arrival
- Carlos Martín: Despite interest from clubs in La Liga, Segunda División and abroad last summer, the academy product’s high wages complicated matters. His lack of playing time (just a brief appearance against Eintracht) means a solution must be found
The coming weeks will reveal whether Alemany sticks with this reshuffled transfer strategy or whether further squad developments force another rethink before the January window opens.