Atlético on verge of sealing Marcos Leonardo deal as transfer plans accelerate
Inside scoop on Atleti's transfer moves: Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo deal nearly complete, while the club continues midfield hunt with Mateu Alemany leading charge
Atlético Madrid are putting the finishing touches on their deal for Brazilian forward Marcos Leonardo from Saudi side Al-Hilal, with only final approval from the Saudi club needed before the striker can sign his contract.
Marcos Leonardo deal all but done
According to transfer insider Matteo Moretto, who dropped the bombshell on Radio MARCA’s La Pizarra de Quintana, the Brazilian striker’s move to the Metropolitano is virtually sealed. As they say in the trade, it’s “cerradísimo” - absolutely locked in.
The Al-Hilal forward would significantly bolster Atleti’s attacking options as Simeone looks to add more firepower to his squad. All that remains is the final green light from the Saudi club before Leonardo can put pen to paper.
Midfield machinations
The Rojiblancos aren’t stopping there, with sporting director Mateu Alemany working overtime on potential midfield reinforcements:
- Several targets have been explored but ruled out due to financial constraints or timing issues
- Names like Ederson (Atalanta), Hjulmand (Sporting CP), Gabri Veiga and Brighton’s Allyari have all been considered
- Moretto described Alemany as “knocking on several doors” in search of the right midfield addition
Mexican pearl incoming
Meanwhile, Atlético have already secured young Mexican talent Obed Vargas from Seattle Sounders. The promising midfielder’s immediate future remains somewhat up in the air:
- Initially planned to go out on loan with Getafe interested
- Could stay with Atleti’s first team if no additional midfield signing materializes
LaLiga merry-go-round
Beyond the Atlético news, Moretto provided updates on other LaLiga dealings:
- Matías Vecino is set to join Celta Vigo on an 18-month contract
- Cédric Bakambu remains at Real Betis after rejecting multiple offers
- Betis would bring in another striker if Bakambu eventually departs
Simeone’s squad is taking shape with these strategic moves, though the midfield puzzle remains partially unsolved. The next few days could be crucial as Alemany continues his hunt for the missing piece.