Atlético Madrid is picking up the pace in the transfer market: As the Rojiblancos officially announced on Wednesday, Spanish international Alex Baena is moving to the capital with immediate effect.
Alex Baena did not take the decision lightly, as most people understood. The midfielder, who came through the youth ranks at Villarreal, decided to leave the Yellow Submarine this summer.
“In football, you have to make decisions. Today I had to make one and you probably don’t understand it,” wrote the ten-time Spanish international (two goals) on his social media channels: “It’s not an official farewell, but I promised you that I would be the first to tell you, and I’m doing that, just as I promise you that I will be back.”
But first, Alex Baena is moving up to the next level: his transfer to Atlético Madrid was made official on Wednesday. The 2024 European champion and Olympic gold medalist has signed a five-year contract with the Rojiblancos until June 30, 2030. In return, they will pay Villarreal a base transfer fee of €45 million. Bonuses could increase the transfer fee to €50 million. Never before has Villarreal received such a high transfer fee.
“Only” won the Europa League
The left winger, who was originally tied to his beloved club until 2028, scored 17 points in 32 La Liga appearances last season – seven goals and ten assists. At club level, Alex Baena has “only” won the Europa League (in 2021 on penalties against Manchester United). More silverware is expected to follow with Atletico.
Coach Diego Simeone’s team, which disappointed in the Club World Cup and was eliminated after the group stage, is currently being strengthened and gradually rejuvenated. Defensive midfielder Johnny (23, Real Betis) and winger Matteo Ruggeri (22, Atalanta Bergamo) are two more big-name summer signings waiting in the wings. Atletico will definitely break the 100 million mark for purchases.
