Thiago Almada (foto: Getty Images)
Napoli are considering a move for Thiago Almada after Atlético Madrid’s Super Cup elimination, with Antonio Conte keen to add the Argentine amid uncertainty over his role in Madrid.
Following Atlético Madrid’s elimination from the Spanish Super Cup at the hands of Real Madrid, a potential escape route has opened for Thiago Almada.
The Argentine international featured for just over 15 minutes in the semi-final defeat — a brief cameo that did little to change a reality far removed from what he expected when he joined Atlético from Olympique Lyon. The attacking midfielder, who hopes to play his second World Cup this year, has struggled to establish himself under Diego Simeone.
Declared transferable
Almada has failed to fully fit into Simeone’s plans and has been absent from a significant number of matches this season. As a result, Atlético are open to letting him leave just months after his arrival.
Grêmio were the first to express interest, but their financial proposal fell well short of Atlético’s demands. The situation could now change after reports from Italy suggested Napoli are prepared to make room for him.
According to AreaNapoli, the side coached by Antonio Conte — who had already admired Almada in the past — are considering a move as cover for a possible departure of Noa Lang to Galatasaray. That sale would provide Napoli with fresh funds to meet Atlético’s valuation.
Talks with the player’s camp
Italian sources also report that contact has already taken place with Almada’s representatives, who are said to be open to the move. Rather than a permanent transfer, Napoli’s preferred formula would be a loan with an option to buy — a structure that would also depend on Simeone’s stance regarding a mid-season exit.
Almada’s numbers at Atlético
Despite arriving with the label of a marquee signing, Almada’s impact has been limited. He has made 16 appearances across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Champions League and the Super Cup, starting only five matches.
Perhaps the clearest indication of his status is in Europe: Simeone did not start him in any of Atlético’s six Champions League games, where Almada accumulated just 60 minutes in total. Across all competitions, his contribution stands at two goals and one assist — all recorded in La Liga.
For Napoli, the Argentine represents a low-risk opportunity to add creativity and depth. For Atlético, a sale or loan could free up funds and recalibrate a squad still searching for balance.