Barcelona and Atletico Madrid told to back off midfield option – ‘untouchable’

Atletico Madrid are currently considering their options as negotiations with Chelsea continue to elongate for Joao Felix. The Portuguese is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, but Atletico and Chelsea must agree on terms, with both sides abundantly aware that Conor Gallagher’s €40m move to the Metropolitano hinges on a positive resolution of the Felix deal.

As such, Atletico are conscious of the possibility that they will have to look for another midfielder. It emerged on Wednesday that Atletico had contacted France international Ngolo Kante‘s brother, and found out he would be keen on a move. Shortly after, Barcelona were also reported to be interested.

La Liga is trying to move the Barcelona – Atlético Madrid game of matchday 18, scheduled for December 20-22, to the United States. @AlfredoMatillaG

— barcacentre (@barcacentre) August 15, 2024

The response from Al-Ittihad and Saudi Arabia has beeen unequivocal though: Kante is not for sale. Diario AS also say Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham were interested in Kante, but he has a contract until 2026, and without the blessing of his club, there is little chance of him leaving.

🇳🇴🥹 Alexander Sørloth: “I told my agent and my family before coming to Spain that I hoped to score enough goals to have the opportunity to play for Atlético Madrid. When they came knocking, I didn't think twice. I always wanted to come to Madrid and play at the Metropolitano.” pic.twitter.com/si9s9TWX2Y

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) August 15, 2024

Los Rojiblancos are still hopeful that the Gallagher deal will go through, but the longer negotiations drag out, the more it looks like they may have to go in a different direction. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has ruled out bringing in another midfielder this summer, Seemingly hoping that one of their youngsters will make the step up to anchor their midfield.