Atlético Madrid Sign Thiago Almada, Eye Richard Ríos as Rodrigo De Paul’s Potential Successor
La Liga giants continue South American investment as squad rebuild under Diego Simeone accelerates
Atlético de Madrid have completed the signing of Thiago Almada from Olympique Lyon, securing the 24-year-old Argentine in a deal valued between €15–20 million (R$97–130 million), according to ESPN. Almada, who starred in Brazil with Botafogo, joins the Spanish club as a direct replacement for Ángel Correa, recently transferred to Tigres UANL in Mexico.
Almada In, Correa Out: Simeone Reshapes Attack
Almada arrives as a Libertadores and Brasileirão champion, bringing flair and versatility to Diego Simeone’s midfield. His move was facilitated by his agent Agustín Jiménez, who also represents Ángel Correa and Rodrigo De Paul two players whose exits are reshaping Atleti’s squad.
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While Correa’s departure is confirmed, De Paul’s future remains uncertain. The Argentine international has yet to agree on a contract extension, and with interest from clubs including Inter Miami, Atlético Madrid is open to negotiating his exit rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2026.
Richard Ríos Emerges as De Paul’s Potential Replacement
With De Paul potentially on his way out, Atlético are evaluating possible replacements. While Valencia’s Javi Guerra is one option, the club is seriously monitoring Richard Ríos, a rising star at Palmeiras and a key figure in Colombia’s national team.
However, securing Ríos will be no easy task. Palmeiras views the midfielder as a non-negotiable starter. The Brazilian club owns 70% of the player’s economic rights and has reportedly placed a €40 million+ valuation on him. Unless Atlético submit an “irresistible” offer, a deal this window appears unlikely.
Strategic Squad Rebuild Underway at Atlético
Atleti’s front office continues to prioritize younger, high-upside talents from South America as part of a long-term strategy to refresh the squad under Simeone. Almada’s arrival signals that intent, bringing both technical skill and recent championship experience.
While Atlético Madrid are not expected to complete a flurry of deals immediately, the club is keeping close tabs on potential outgoings including Conor Gallagher, who is reportedly being targeted by Everton in the Premier League.
