Key Takeaways:
- Atletico Madrid are monitoring Leon Goretzka’s situation, with the 30-year-old potentially able to sign a pre-contract in January
- Napoli and Juventus are also vying for Goretzka, whose Bayern Munich contract concludes this summer
- Midfield changes loom for Atletico, with Conor Gallagher linked to a move and ongoing injury concerns for Johnny Cardoso
Atletico’s Transfer Ambitions Strengthened by Recent Investment
Following a recent acquisition by Apollo Global Management, Atletico Madrid are poised to enhance their squad with increased investment. Despite this financial injection, their attention is firmly fixed on a cost-effective target – Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka. As reported by Diario AS, the experienced German international could soon be available on a free transfer, with his contract at Bayern Munich set to expire this summer. This allows Atletico to approach Goretzka regarding a pre-contract agreement in under two weeks. The Madrid club remain well informed of his contractual situation, as Bayern have yet to meet the player’s demands.
🚨🇩🇪 JUST IN – Pending confirmation: Atlético Madrid are closely monitoring Leon Goretzka.
His contract expires in June 2026, and his situation at Bayern Munich is complicated.
[🥈: @diarioas] pic.twitter.com/NaXRemnQKm
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) December 19, 2025
Goretzka Draws Widespread Interest Ahead of Imminent Contract Expiry
Atletico Madrid view Goretzka as an astute medium-term acquisition who still has significant contributions to offer. The 30-year-old, after a Bundesliga-exclusive career, is reportedly open to playing abroad. However, Los Colchoneros face stiff challenges from Serie A, with both Napoli and Juventus eager to secure a free transfer.
| Player | Current Club | Contract Status | Interested Clubs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Goretzka | Bayern Munich | Out of contract this summer | Atletico Madrid, Napoli, Juventus |
Potential Reshuffle in Atletico’s Midfield
Over the past year, Conor Gallagher has featured regularly in transfer speculation, with a possible return to the Premier League on the horizon. Reports indicate that Atletico are willing to negotiate at around €30m, especially as Gallagher’s playing time has diminished and Manchester United have shown interest. Should his current situation persist, a move in 2026 appears probable.
Meanwhile, Johnny Cardoso’s injury struggles have limited his impact throughout the campaign. In his absence, captain Koke Resurreccion has enjoyed a resurgence, earning notable minutes and impressing with his performances. Despite this, Atletico’s ongoing preparations suggest a transition away from depending on the 33-year-old as a routine starter. The addition of Goretzka, who possesses a different profile and is likened more to Pablo Barrios in terms of playing style, could prove beneficial to Diego Simeone’s tactical setup.
