La Liga
Atlético de Madrid is once again focusing on the market with a very specific priority: reinforcing the left-back position for the upcoming season. The red and white team knows they need a player capable of making a difference on both sides of the field, especially in a system as demanding as Cholo Simeone's.
In this context, a name arises that brings excitement but also seems unattainable due to various economic and sporting factors. Atlético de Madrid navigates between the desire for a galactic signing and the reality of a more pragmatic approach.
Atlético de Madrid dreams of Marc Cucurella
Atlético de Madrid's great desire has a name and a surname: Marc Cucurella. The Spanish international has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the world, being crucial both at Chelsea and in the Spanish national team. His intensity, defensive reliability, and ability to join the attack fit perfectly into Cholo Simeone's philosophy.
Marc Cucurella epitomizes the total type of player that the Argentine coach values above almost any other profile. However, Atlético de Madrid is fully aware that this is an almost utopian operation. Chelsea has no intention of letting go of one of its pillars, and the transfer cost would be well beyond the red and whites' capabilities.
Nevertheless, the Metropolitano's offices do not give up on dreaming, although they know they must consider more realistic alternatives. Hence, the board has another name on the table in case the signing of Marc Cucurella falls through definitively.
Carlos Romero, the Plan B gaining strength
Faced with the difficulty of securing Marc Cucurella's arrival, Atlético de Madrid has activated an alternative plan. The underlined name on the agenda is Carlos Romero, a 24-year-old defender belonging to Villarreal. Currently on loan at Espanyol, the young full-back is showing significant progress.
In fact, this is the second consecutive season that the player defends the Espanyol shirt, a sign of the confidence his performance generates. Last season, he was an important player, with three direct goal involvements in 34 LaLiga matches. This season, he has taken a step further, already contributing with two goals and two assists in just 15 games.
His development has not gone unnoticed by Atlético de Madrid, which values his depth, speed, and offensive character. Undoubtedly, Carlos Romero would be a highly suitable signing for Cholo Simeone's scheme.
A Profile That Fits Cholo Simeone
Carlos Romero is seen as a real threat on the wing, a profile that can adapt well to the red and white system. His ability to cover the entire left flank and his defensive commitment meet Cholo Simeone's requirements. Atlético de Madrid seeks full-backs who provide constant energy and do not shy away from high-intensity matches.
Carlos Romero, despite not having the status of Marc Cucurella, offers room for growth and a much more manageable cost. Additionally, his recent experience in LaLiga would allow him to adapt quickly without a lengthy transition period. His consistency and ability to influence offensive play from deep positions are valued by the coaching staff.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El plan B del Atlético por si falla el fichaje de Cucurella
