Having all-but finalised a deal to sign Robin Le Normand from Real Sociedad, Atletico Madrid are now pursuing other defensive targets. David Hancko appears to be the player they want, although interest is also being shown in Spain and Al-Nassr centre-back Aymeric Laporte. Those two aren’t the only ones to keep an eye on.
Atleti have also monitoring RB Leipzig’s Mohamed Simakan. Florian Plettenberg has reported that an enquiry has sent to the Bundesliga heavyweights, who are prepared to sell the French defender this summer. Liverpool are also showing interest.
🚨🆕 Liverpool and Atlético Madrid have enquired about Mohamed #Simakan in the last days!
Both clubs have gathered information. The 24 y/o central defender/right-back from RB Leipzig with a contract until 2027. #LFC
Leipzig would like to keep him. But he’s not unsellable.… pic.twitter.com/wAJ2CDEwLu
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 16, 2024
Plettenberg has stated that €40-45m would be enough for any club to sign Simakan. This is likely to rule Atleti out of the race, especially consider they are apprehensive to meet the €35m asking price that Feyenoord have set for Hancko.
It remains to be seen who Atletico Madrid sign as their second centre-back addition of the summer. Simakan may be on the list, but he will likely be relatively far down. For now, Hancko leads the way.
