Atletico Madrid News
Official: Atletico Madrid sign Tottenham Hotspur defender on a free transfer
Atletico Madrid have made their final move of the winter transfer window, completing the signing of Matt Doherty from Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer.
The Irish international has seen little to no minutes in the league this season, and had his contract mutually terminated by Tottenham before he made the switch to Atletico on deadline day.
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) January 31, 2023
This comes on the back of a three-way switch. Spurs signed Pedro Porro from Sporting Lisbon, who have reportedly replaced him with Hector Bellerin from Barcelona, while enabling Doherty’s switch to La Liga.
This is only Atletico’s second winter transfer for this window. They had signed Memphis Depay earlier this month from Barcelona on a €3 million 2.5-year deal.
That said, they have managed to offload Joao Felix to Chelsea, Mathus Cunha to Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Marcos Paulo to Sao Paolo. Atletico also managed to register Pablo Barrios to the first-team after his impressive displays in the first-half of the season.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
