According to As reported, despite Atletico Madrid (
Atletico Madrid (soccer team)
) brought in Lenormand this summer to strengthen their defense, but they are still looking for another center back. Barcelona center back Longley has been recommended to Atletico, but he is not in Atletico's reinforcement plan.
Longley has previously been on loan at Tottenham and Villa but has not performed as expected. He is under contract until 2026 and earns a whopping €16 million a year before tax, which is a significant burden for Atletico. Barcelona would like to sell Langré, but a direct loan to Atletico would not be practical due to his high salary and the complexity of trading with rivals.
As a result, Longley's future could turn to the Saudi League. Atletico boss Simeone wants to bring in players who can immediately improve their defensive performances, such as Lenormand, who joined as a Europa League winner and is one of the best center-backs in La Liga.
Atletico's focus now turns to Dutch center back
Hantsø (city in Buskerud, Norway)
.. Simeone is in love with the player as he can play not only as a center back but also as a left back. Hantzko has excelled in terms of his defensive and confrontational abilities and Atletico are trying to complete his introduction as soon as possible.
Since the departures of Paulista, Serwunju, Hermoso and Savic, Atletico have made strengthening their defense a priority in the summer window. Last season, Atletico conceded 43 goals in the league, 10 more than the previous season. Oblak conceded 68 goals in 54 games last season, the worst defensive statistic since Simeone took charge. As a result, Atletico are in dire need of bolstering their defense to reverse the negative situation of the past season.
