[THREAD] In part 2 of our analysis of Atletico Madrid’s rebuild, we point to potential transfer targets to address the issues we identified in part 1.

We recommend you go through part 1, if you haven’t done so already, before going through this thread. https://twitter.com/FTStands_/status/1300273645357608960

Atleti desperately need a more clinical striker up top. Someone who is clinical in front of goal, but can still fit into Simeone’s setups. For this position, we’ve identified 3 potential targets:

1. Odsonne Edouard
2. Duvan Zapata
3. Andre Silva

Edouard has been a revelation for his Celtic side over the past 2 seasons. The 22 year-old already possesses a remarkably well rounded offensive game. He combines his remarkable technique and attacking intelligence with incredible speed and strength.

Zapata has been deadly in front of goal for Atalanta over the last two seasons. The Colombian is a very well-rounded goalscorer who is capable of scoring in a variety of ways. He possesses predatory instincts inside the box.

Andre Silva has a knack for being in the right place at the right time. He is a versatile forward who combines well with teammates, drifts to wide channels and has a poacher’s instincts in-and-around the box.

The 2nd need we identified was for a creative, ball-carrying left-winger. Carrasco did a superb job in that role during his brief loan spell, but should Atleti be unable to make the move permanent, we’ve identified 3 other targets:
1. H. Barnes
2. J. Brekalo
3. F. Anderson

Barnes’ pace and goal-scoring instincts make him an interesting prospect for Atleti. He can be a devastating outlet in counter-attacking situations.

Brekalo is an incredibly unpredictable dribbler. The combination of his speed, technique, and 2-footedness make him very difficult to defend 1v1. He will help Atleti unlock stubborn defenses, and be an outlet on the counter. With that said, his finishing is a concern.

Felipe Anderson generally divides opinion. There is no denying however, that he is an incredibly creative dribbler & ball carrier, and that he is a work-horse out of possession. Consequently he would be a great fit for Simeone’s side.

Lastly, we mentioned that Atleti will need to find a replacement for Partey should he be sold. Using a cluster analysis, we were able to identify similar players, and then scouted them to narrow them down further to 3 potential targets:
1. A. Maher
2. M. Locatelli
3. I. Sangare

Maher’s profile is remarkably similar to Partey’s. He is an excellent defender, who excels at intercepting passes. He also possesses a remarkable passing range, and is particularly adept at playing long-balls.

Locatelli truly is a phenomenal prospect. The Italian is exceedingly capable of being the focal-point of a side’s build-up dynamics, and his remarkable passing range makes him a quality chance creator even from deep. He reads the game well, and excels at defending in transition.

Sangare is a tenacious defender. Excellent at harassing & tackling ball carriers, as well as closing down his opponents very well. He is also an accomplished progressive passer. With that said, he is not very press-resistant, which can be a big concern.

Given Atleti’s needs, the financial situation of the football world, and budget limitations (76.5m after sales), we would recommend the following 3 signings:
- Edouard (35m)
- Felipe Anderson(30m)
- Maher (5m) (if Partey leaves)
Total spend: 70m (including Maher)