Tue Jul 15 18:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Atlético Madrid Eyes Argentine World Cup Winner Almada as Correa Replacement
**Madrid, Spain -** Following the departure of Ángel Correa to Tigres in Mexico, Atlético Madrid is reportedly targeting Argentine World Cup winner Thiago Almada to bolster their squad, according to reports in the Portuguese newspaper *Record*.
Manager Diego Simeone is looking for a player with similar attributes to Correa, and Almada, who spent last season on loan at Olympique Lyonnais from Botafogo (both part of the same ownership group), fits the bill.
The interest from Atlético Madrid reportedly comes after Almada was close to a deal with Benfica. However, Lyon’s financial difficulties complicated negotiations with the Portuguese club, allowing Atlético to enter the fray. Despite Almada having a release clause of $500 million, Lyon’s urgent need to generate income could force a sale to alleviate debt.
Lyon’s finances have been unstable due to the multi-ownership model implemented by John Textor. This model has drawn criticism after the team’s brief demotion.
Almada has been in impressive form, both for Lyon and the Argentine national team. Since joining Lyon, he has played 26 games, scoring three goals and providing two assists. He has also become a regular in Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad, even scoring a goal against Uruguay.
Should the transfer materialize, Almada would join a strong Argentine contingent already at Atlético Madrid, including Juan Musso, Rodrigo de Paul, Nahuel Molina, Julián Álvarez, Giuliano and coach Diego Simeone.
However, the club is currently undergoing a rebuild, and alongside Correa’s exit, Rodrigo de Paul has been linked with a move to Inter Miami. Reports from Spanish media suggest Atlético Madrid will demand around €20 million for de Paul, a sale that could further ease their financial situation and potentially facilitate the arrival of Almada.
First Piper 