David Hancko back on Atlético’s radar as defense issues persist

Atlético Madrid is back in the hunt for David Hancko, the Slovakian defender currently playing for Feyenoord, as the club looks to address lingering issues in their defensive lineup. The 26-year-old is reportedly a top choice for sporting director Andrea Berta, and this marks the second time Atlético has shown serious interest in the center-back.

The Colchoneros’ defense has been a constant headache for Diego Simeone, with recent signing Clément Lenglet struggling to fully convince the Argentine coach. While Lenglet has featured regularly in the starting lineup, it appears this is due more to injuries within the squad than to Simeone’s trust in the player.

Hancko, however, brings a mix of youth and experience. At 26 years old, the Slovakian international has proven his reliability and versatility in Feyenoord’s defense, making him an appealing target for Atlético Madrid. His performances have also drawn attention from other major clubs, including Juventus and Manchester United, further raising his profile in the transfer market.

The main hurdle to Atlético’s pursuit of Hancko has been Feyenoord’s valuation of the player. The Dutch club reportedly asked for €35-40 million during Atlético’s previous approach, a figure the Madrid club deemed excessive. It remains to be seen if Feyenoord will lower their asking price this time, opening the door for Hancko to make the switch to the Civitas Metropolitano.

The growing interest in Hancko’s services from clubs like Juventus and Manchester United could make negotiations more challenging for Atlético. However, Hancko’s ability to play as both a central defender and left-back aligns well with Simeone’s tactical flexibility, making him an ideal fit for Atlético’s system.

Should Feyenoord adjust their demands, Hancko could become a crucial reinforcement for Atlético Madrid’s backline as they aim to solve their defensive frailties and maintain their competitive edge in LaLiga and Europe.