Simeone calls for transfer window to close before LaLiga season starts
LaLiga clubs have another two weeks to complete their transfer business but Diego Simeone insisted the window should already be closed.
Atlético de Madrid coach Diego Simeone has reiterated his desire for the transfer window to close before the LaLiga season starts. Spanish clubs have until 2 September to complete their transfer business and there is still the possibility of incoming and outgoing activity at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Atlético, who begin their campaign with a home match against Getafe on Sunday, have been strongly linked with Valencia striker Rodrigo but to complete that transfer, they must first sell Ángel Correa - with AC Milan his most likely destination. Simeone said he wants LaLiga to follow the example set by the Premier League in moving the cut-off point for new signings as it would be "mentally healthier" for teams.
Healthier all round
"I think all the managers would love it, like it happens in England," he said. "If I am not wrong, all of them have the squad built when the competition starts. It would be mentally healthier for everyone being focused on the guys who will play. Now we have to wait until September 2 as there can be updates."
Rodrigo and Correa training apart
Atlético appeared to be on the brink of signing Rodrigo from LaLiga counterparts Valencia earlier this week, only to pull the plug on a deal reported to be worth €60million. Valencia general director Mateu Alemany revealed the original offer is "no longer on the table", but Simeone was unwilling to comment on the transfer saga ahead of Sunday's meeting with Getafe. "You should ask to Andrea Berta, Miguel Ángel [Gil Marin] and Enrique [Cerezo]," he said. "I am just focused on Getafe, a team who did a fantastic season last year."
Asked if Correa is part of his plans, Simeone said: "I would like all the good players to stay. I would also like to sign all the good players and build the strongest team possible to compete as the team has competed so far."
Koke, Saúl Ñíguez, Jan Oblak and José Giménez have been installed as Atletico's four captains for 2019-20 following the departures of Diego Godin, Juanfran and Antoine Griezmann during the close season.