Atletico bolster attacking ranks with Baena signing from Villarreal

Atletico Madrid’s summer time rebuild continued after they introduced the arrival of Villarreal’s Alex Baena on Wednesday.

Baena, who will present Diego Simeone with an thrilling addition on the left aspect of his assault, has signed a five-year deal for a reported €50 million switch price.

The 23-year-old follows Matteo Ruggeri by way of the doorways at Metropolitano, with Actual Betis’ Johnny Cardoso additionally set to affix the membership within the coming days.

Baena had a standout season in 2024-25, registering 16 objective involvements (seven objectives, 9 assists), with solely Ayoze Perez (21) having extra in LaLiga for Villarreal.

His 9 assists was a complete solely bettered by Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal (13) within the high flight, however his spectacular statistics don’t cease there.

The Spaniard created 95 probabilities in LaLiga in 2024-25, greater than some other participant within the division, and 47 greater than Atletico’s high playmaker Antoine Griezmann (48).

Welcome, Álex Baena!

In response to the @villarrealcf for the switch of the Spanish worldwide, which indicators for 5 seasons with our membership. pic.twitter.com/2ecxeqzcf3

– Atletico de Madrid (@atleti) July 2, 2025

Baena ends his time with Villarreal having made 148 appearances throughout all competitions, scoring 26 objectives in addition to offering 40 assists.

He was a part of Unai Emery’s group that beat Manchester United within the Europa League ultimate again in 2020-21.

Atletico are additionally reportedly looking for to strike a take care of Tottenham Hotspur for defender Cristian Romero to bolster their backline.