Atletico Madrid pounce to snap up Wolves and AC Milan target in €12m deal for right-back

Atletico didn’t waste time after the Jesus Areso deal shockingly fell apart. They quickly struck a deal with Almeria for Pubill, who had been on the Spanish club's radar for a while. According to Mundo Deportivo, Madrid agreed to pay around €12 million ($13m/£10m) plus add-ons, with Pubill expected to sign a five-year contract once he completes his medical on Wednesday.

Atletico thought they had things wrapped up with Areso. They had a deal in place with Osasuna and believed the defender was on his way to the capital. But in a shocking twist, Osasuna sold him to Athletic Club, reportedly ignoring their agreement with Atleti altogether.

However, rather than dwell on it, Atletico's front office turned to Almeria for Pubill and got the deal done. Wolves, AC Milan and Barcelona were reportedly interested in signing the Spaniard, but Atletico didn’t take any chances and wrapped up the move in record time.

"Atlético de Madrid and UD Almería have reached an agreement for the transfer of Marc Pubill to our club, pending his passing the relevant medical examination and signing a new contract," a statement from Atletico read.

The Terrassa-born defender made his La Liga debut with Levante in 2021 at just 18, then moved to Almería in 2023. In two seasons, he played 63 matches, scoring twice and assisting eight. Pubill was part of Spain’s squad during their gold medal run at the Paris Olympics last year.

Atleti needed to sort out the right-back position, especially with Nahuel Molina occupying a non-EU slot. Madrid's next step would be to find a suitable club for Molina, who could leave on loan.