Luiz Felipe, defender on Atlético's agenda for now … or 2022

Atlético has clear positions to strengthen, but is open to market opportunities that may arise in order to have a larger and more compensated squad. In principle, it is not in the plans to sign a center-back, but if a good option appears, they will be fitted into the squad. From Italy, Luiz Felipe, a 24-year-old defender of Lazio, who ends his contract in 2022, is linked with the League champion. Two ways are open to sign him.

The Brazilian, who has had a good season in Serie A -although he was out between January and May due to an ankle injury-, is receiving proposals from clubs that know that, entering the last year of his contract, his price can be very interesting. These reports from Italy speak that it could come out for between 12 and 15 million, although Lazio is not in a hurry and hopes that the bid will heat up. Meanwhile, to fill his vacancy, he goes behind Matteo Lovato, from Hellas Verona.

Among the teams that follow Luiz Felipe are Betis and Atlético. The rojiblancos have Savic, Giménez, Felipe and Hermoso, although the versatility of the Spaniard, who can be lateral, and the scheme of three centrals that Simeone has used so much can encourage the club to get a fifth player for that position. That is why Nehuén, after his assignment at Granada, will also do the preseason with the first team.

However, another possibility is being explored. If the footballer does not renew, which for now he has no intention (although he has an offer for four more years), within a year he will be free. Then it will be a very interesting market opportunity. Lazio has a dilemma with Luiz Felipe, because offers will not be lacking, but perhaps none will finish filling them …