Atlético returns to old target for left-back

Atlético Madrid are reviving interest in left-back Sergi Cardona, who will be available on a free transfer when his Villarreal contract expires in summer 2025.

Atlético Madrid are moving in the January transfer window to strengthen their left-back position. The club failed to sign Nicolás Tagliafico from Lyon in August and may revisit that option, but are now focusing on Sergi Cardona, a 27-year-old left-back at Villarreal.

Atlético previously tracked Cardona in 2023 when he was at Las Palmas with just months remaining on his contract, but Villarreal secured his signature. Cardona's deal with the Castellón club expires at the end of the 2024–25 season, making him an attractive target if Villarreal want to recoup a fee in January rather than lose him for nothing in summer.

Director Mateu Alemany is tasked with bringing in a left-back after failing to do so in the summer window. Alejandro Grimaldo is currently Atlético's only pure left-back, with David Hancko capable of playing the role but currently deployed in central defence alongside Cuti Romero and Marc Pubill.