Atletico Madrid Close to Signing Thiago Almada from Lyon

According to ESPN sources, Thiago Almada is nearing a move to Atletico Madrid — the 24-year-old player has already approved his transfer to the Spanish club.

Transfer negotiations valued between €15 million and €20 million are close to agreement — only minor details remain to be resolved between both clubs.

Los Rojiblancos’ interest in Almada emerged following Angel Correa’s departure to Tigres UANL in Liga MX. The player, who remains under contract with Botafogo until 2029, spent the latter half of last season on loan at Lyon.

Almada’s arrival could coincide with Rodrigo De Paul’s potential move to Inter Miami — the 31-year-old Argentine midfielder has agreed to the transfer, though both clubs are still discussing the transfer fee.

To replace De Paul, Atletico is considering several options:

• Javi Guerra from Valencia who nearly joined last season
• Richard Rios, Colombian midfielder from Palmeiras, though deemed too expensive