Atlético de Madrid made a late move on transfer deadline day, securing a signing that few saw coming. With just two points from their opening three matches in LaLiga EA Sports 2025/26 and mounting pressure on Diego Simeone, the club turned to a proven European talent with international pedigree.

Who Is Nicolás González and How Did the Deal Happen?

The surprise addition is Nicolás González, a 27-year-old Argentine winger arriving from Juventus. The agreement is a season-long loan worth €1 million, with a conditional obligation to buy for €32 million should certain performance targets be met during the campaign.

The player flew to Madrid early in the day, passed his medical, and signed his contract with the rojiblancos. While González already featured this season for Juventus — logging 12 minutes against Genoa — his Atlético debut will have to wait until after the international break due to his call-up with the Argentina national team for the September 2025 World Cup qualifiers.

What Will Nico González Bring to Simeone’s Team?

Capable of playing on both flanks, González is expected to compete mainly on the right wing, where Giuliano Simeone had recently earned playing time. His arrival boosts Atlético’s attacking depth alongside Antoine Griezmann, Julián Álvarez, Thiago Almada, Giacomo Raspadori, Álex Baena, and striker Alexander Sørloth.

González’s résumé is strong: he impressed at Fiorentina, scoring 38 goals and 15 assists across three seasons, before moving to Juventus. Last year, he played 40 matches for the Bianconeri, contributing five goals and four assists.

Context of the Transfer

This marks Atlético’s eighth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of David Hancko, Miguel Pubill, Marco Ruggeri, João Cardoso, Álex Baena, Thiago Almada, and Giacomo Raspadori. At the same time, the club parted ways with veterans and long-time figures such as Axel Witsel, César Azpilicueta, Thomas Lemar, Ángel Correa, and Rodrigo De Paul.

The signing reflects Atlético’s urgent need to refresh their squad after a turbulent start to the season. With battles ahead in LaLiga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa, Nicolás González is expected to play a key role in helping Simeone’s side rediscover its competitive edge.