Atletico Madrid's first priority in January this year was to bring in another defender. After Trippier joined Newcastle, after realizing that four centre-backs were not enough for a team that often used a three-back system, Simeone wanted another centre-back or right-back, or ideally, a player who could play both positions at the same time. There are several players who fit this trait and they have been associated with Atletico. Let's take a look at five candidates who moved to the Wanda Metropolitano in the winter.
Azpilicueta is the ideal candidate for Atletico Madrid, although he is also one of the least likely players to join. He will be the perfect candidate for the defending La Liga title as he can play anywhere on the defensive line and will also bring some extra experience and leadership to the defence that is needed. The Spain international's contract with Chelsea expires at the end of the season and he doesn't rule out any possibility, but if it's possible, he's more likely to move in the summer.
Spain reported that David Garcia of Osasuna was Simeone's first choice. The 27-year-old is at his peak, having graduated from Osasuna Youth Academy and has been starting for several seasons. He is not as versatile as the other candidates, with a €20 million termination clause, but Garcia is considered another best option for Atletico.
With Cedric Suarez limited playing time at Arsenal this season, he could be loaned to Madrid to fill a gap in the team's defence in the second half of the season. The right-back will directly replace Trippier and compete with the vulnerable Vrsaliko at right-back.
Mugere is another versatile player who can play at right-back and centre-back. He was mainly placed at right-back or even on the right wing, but he also had experience playing in the middle, especially in Montpellier. The 24-year-old Frenchman has been on Atletico's list for some time and could be the window they will eventually fight for him.
One player who has been linked for months at Atletico Madrid is Attila Zoroy, the Hungarian international who currently plays for Fenerbahce. He's a left-footed centre-back who won't help solve the problem of a shortage of manpower at right-backs, and although he occasionally plays at left-back, Simeone really likes Suroy's ability to make him their fifth centre-back.