Atlanta United star Thiago Almada ‘is a transfer target for Atletico Madrid’ as the Spanish club prepares to replace Saudi-bound Angel Correa… with the midfielder seeking a move to LaLiga

Atlanta United midfielder Thiago Almada has reportedly emerged as a top target for Atletico Madrid as the Spanish club seeks replacements for Saudi-bound Angel Correa.

Reports in Spanish outlet Marca suggest Atletico are convinced Correa will become the latest high-profile player to head to Saudi Arabia this month, meaning they are on the hunt for a potential replacement in the January transfer window.

And according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Almada is one of the top names on their wishlist ahead of his fellow Argentine’s expected move to the Middle East.

The 22-year-old, who was a member of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad in December 2022, admitted he wants to move to Europe after Atlanta’s first-round MLS playoff exit last month.

‘I want to go to Europe now,’ Almada was quoted as saying to ESPN Argentina. ‘I would like to play in the Spanish Premier La Liga.

Almada is on Atletico’s radar as a potential replacement for Saudi-bound Angel Correa

‘There was interest from Ajax, which could not happen. Let’s see now.’

However, Almada also did not rule out the idea of playing for Argentine powerhouse Boca Juniors after receiving praise from retired Argentine star Juan Roman Riquelme.

‘I saw what Román said,’ he added. ‘Now I want to stay there (Argentina), go to Europe. Maybe later. I would love to play in the Champions League.’ 

Almada was named the MLS Young Player of the Year after scoring 12 goals and 16 assists for the five stripes this past season.

Atlanta finished their campaign with a 15-9-12 (W-L-D) record before being the Columbus Crew’s first victim on their route to the MLS Cup Finals. 

Outside Atlanta, Almada has made four appearances and scored a goal for Argentina’s senior team. Almada also appeared in one game during Argentina’s run to winning the FIFA World Cup in December.