Atletico Madrid have concluded the winter transfer market by signing Valencia defender Gabriel Paulista.
The Rojiblancos waited until the end of the market to deal with Paulista, while Caglar Soyuncu was loaned to Fenerbahçe. The deal was seen as a simple swap, with Paulista replacing Soyuncu as an experienced figure in Diego Simeone’s defensive options.
Atlético were awarded a free transfer after agreeing to pay the remainder of Paulista’s contract at Los Che until the end of the season. The former Arsenal defender is expected to feature in Simeone’s plans for the weekend’s derby against Real Madrid, despite his late arrival.
Griezmann still performing well
The 33-year-old defender has spoken of his eagerness to start at Madrid and he mischievously pointed out that not having to mark his new teammate Antoine Griezmann was a deciding factor in his move. “ He is one of the best players in the world. I suffered a lot against him and now I can play alongside him”we can read in Marca.
“He is a very intelligent player, he knows how to pass the ball and how to finish chances. » Griezmann remains a vital part of Atlético Madrid’s quest for the top four this season, with 11 goals in La Liga, six assists in the league and 18 goals in all competitions.
