Atlético Madrid Agrees €30M Deals for Midfielders Cardoso, Ruggeri

Atlético Madrid has agreed to a €20 million deal with Atalanta to sign versatile left-back Matteo Ruggeri, who impressed with 38 appearances and three assists in the 2024/25 season. They have also secured a key midfield signing, Johnny Cardoso, from Real Betis for €30 million plus €2 million in add-ons, with the American midfielder set to sign a five-year contract. Cardoso, who played a pivotal role in Betis' recent successes and is regarded as one of La Liga’s best defensive midfielders, was Atlético's top target and chose the club over other European suitors. Sporting director Carlos Bucero was instrumental in finalizing the Cardoso transfer, which aims to strengthen Atlético's midfield following a disappointing Club World Cup campaign. Additionally, Atlético is in advanced talks to sign Villarreal's Álex Baena as part of their summer reinforcement plans. These signings reflect Atlético's strategy to build a competitive squad under Diego Simeone for the 2025–26 season, challenging rivals like Real Madrid and Barcelona.