Mansion Sports - Atletico Madrid has made another significant move in the 2025 summer transfer window by officially announcing the acquisition of Thiago Almada from Brazilian side Botafogo. 

This marks the club’s third signing of the window, following earlier deals for Alex Baena and Matteo Ruggeri. 

The addition of Almada underscores Atletico’s serious intent to build a more competitive squad ahead of the upcoming season, despite negotiations with the Argentine midfielder only intensifying in recent days.

Almada Signs Five-Year Contract with Atletico Madrid

Thiago Almada, who spent last season on loan at Olympique Lyon, has agreed to a five-year contract with Atletico Madrid. The club officially confirmed the transfer on Tuesday and announced that the player would undergo medical examinations in Madrid before completing the formal signing of his contract.

"Atletico de Madrid and Botafogo F.R. have reached an agreement over the transfer of 24-year-old Argentine international Thiago Almada, who will travel to Madrid to complete his medicals before signing a contract to finalize the deal," read the club’s official statement.

Transfer Details and Economic Rights Structure

According to football journalist Matteo Moretto, Atletico Madrid will pay €21 million for 50% of Almada’s economic rights. 

The agreement also includes a clause that allows the Spanish club to gradually eliminate Botafogo’s sell-on percentage over time.

Despite the complex nature of the ownership structure, Atletico Madrid has demonstrated strong commitment to the 24-year-old, who is widely regarded as a player with significant potential to thrive under Diego Simeone’s guidance.

A Potential Replacement for Angel Correa?

The signing of Thiago Almada initially raised questions, especially since Atletico had already secured the services of Alex Baena—another creative player with a similar profile. 

However, from a tactical standpoint, Almada is likely being lined up as a direct replacement for Angel Correa, who recently departed the club to join Tigres in Mexico earlier this month.

Given his proficiency in operating as a second striker, Almada offers manager Diego Simeone the flexibility to transition to a 4-4-1-1 formation, deviating from his traditionally preferred 4-4-2 setup. This tactical shift could add valuable depth and variation to Atletico’s attacking options for the upcoming campaign.

Atletico's Transfer Strategy Continues to Unfold

In addition to Almada and the expected arrival of Johnny Cardoso, Atletico Madrid remains active in the market as the club seeks to bolster its central defensive options. 

Following the collapse of their pursuit of Cristian Romero and the allocation of a portion of their budget toward Almada’s transfer, Atletico is now reportedly targeting a more economically viable option at center-back.

Nevertheless, Atletico’s ongoing activity in the transfer market reveals a clear ambition: to construct a well-balanced and competitive squad capable of challenging in both domestic and European competitions.