Atletico Madrid Eye Julian Brandt as Potential Griezmann Successor, Arsenal Also Interested

Key Takeaways:

• Julian Brandt is set to leave Borussia Dortmund as a free agent this summer, attracting interest from Atletico Madrid and Arsenal
• Atletico Madrid are targeting Brandt as a possible replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who has confirmed a move to Major League Soccer and Orlando City
• Brandt has registered 11 goals and 3 assists in 40 appearances for Dortmund this season, with 48 international caps for Germany

Transfer Plans Intensify for Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid’s preparations for an active transfer window continue, with Sporting Director Mateu Alemany overseeing his first full summer at the helm. Amidst the conclusion of their current campaign, the club have highlighted Julian Brandt of Borussia Dortmund as a priority target, according to Marca. The versatile 29-year-old attacking midfielder is out of contract this summer and has opted to leave Dortmund, making him available on a free transfer. Alemany is reported to be closely monitoring the situation as Brandt weighs up his next move.

💣🚨 BREAKING: Atlético Madrid are pushing hard to sign Julian Brandt as Antoine Griezmann's replacement this summer.

He would arrive on a free transfer.

[🥇: @medinamarca, @marca] pic.twitter.com/v91qZ5EDmY

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) April 23, 2026

Brandt Considered as Griezmann Replacement

The Madrid-based outlet indicates that Brandt has been shortlisted as a direct replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who will depart Atletico Madrid to join Major League Soccer side Orlando City this summer. While Brandt has also been linked with a potential move to MLS, the possibility remains for him to continue his career in European football. Like Griezmann, Brandt offers significant tactical flexibility, having operated across both wings and in the playmaker role behind the striker. Although Griezmann has featured as a central forward, manager Diego Simeone has not relied on that system regularly in recent seasons.

Arsenal Also in Pursuit and Competition for Midfield Reinforcements

Brandt’s situation has also attracted interest from Arsenal, Atletico’s Champions League semi-final rivals. The Premier League club are reportedly considering a bid as they look to strengthen their attacking options. Moreover, both sides are set to compete for another summer target, Atalanta midfielder Ederson dos Santos.

Brandt’s Season Statistics and International Pedigree

This season, Brandt has delivered an impressive tally of 11 goals and 3 assists in 40 appearances for Borussia Dortmund, despite experiencing fluctuations in starting eleven appearances since February. On the international stage, he boasts significant experience with 48 caps and 3 goals for Germany, though he has not featured for the national team since 2023.