Atlético Madrid have made strengthening the left-back position a clear priority during the January transfer window as Diego Simeone looks to address a growing imbalance in his squad.
The departure of Javi Galán to Osasuna has left Atlético light on natural options. Matteo Ruggeri has struggled to convince since arriving, while Dávid Hancko has been used as an emergency solution despite being more comfortable centrally. With domestic and European ambitions still alive, Atlético believe reinforcement is necessary rather than optional.
Several names have been discussed internally and externally as Simeone searches for a left-back capable of fitting Atlético’s tactical demands. Here are the leading candidates under consideration.
Nathan Aké
Nathan Aké is one of the most high-profile options linked with Atlético this winter. The Manchester City defender offers versatility, experience at the highest level and defensive reliability, all qualities Simeone values.
Aké is comfortable operating as a traditional left back or as the left-sided centre-back in a back three, which would suit Atlético’s tactical flexibility. However, his availability remains the biggest obstacle. City are reluctant to weaken their squad mid-season, and any deal would likely require a significant fee or a complex loan arrangement.
While Aké’s defensive profile fits Atlético well, his lack of attacking output could limit his appeal if Simeone is seeking greater balance down the left flank.
Alejandro Grimaldo
Alejandro Grimaldo represents a very different profile. The Bayer Leverkusen full-back has been one of Europe’s most productive wide defenders over the past two seasons, combining chance creation, set-piece quality and consistent end product.
Grimaldo’s attacking instincts would immediately improve Atlético’s width and creativity, particularly against deep defensive blocks. His familiarity with Spanish football is another advantage.
The concern lies in his defensive suitability. Simeone demands positional discipline and defensive intensity from his full-backs, and Grimaldo’s strengths lie further up the pitch. With his contract set to expire in June 2027, Leverkusen could be willing to listen to offers before the summer to avoid a low sale.
Miguel Gutiérrez
Miguel Gutiérrez is a name Atlético know well. The Real Madrid academy product was one of LaLiga’s top-performing left-backs at Girona for three seasons, combining strong attacking output with improving defensive awareness.
Gutiérrez’s comfort in possession, ability to invert into midfield and tactical intelligence make him an attractive option for Simeone’s evolving system.
These qualities earned him a €18 million summer move to Napoli but he has yet to cement a place in Antonio Conte‘s team, with injuries not helping him at the start of the season. If his game time does not increase, a return to Spain could be appealing and his age profile (24) also aligns with Atlético’s longer-term planning.
Pervis Estupiñán
Pervis Estupiñán offers a more direct, physical alternative. Atlético have been admirers of the Ecuadorian since his time at Villarreal, but having only recently joined AC Milan from Brighton in the summer, the player would likely have to push for a move himself to make it happen.
The defender is powerful, aggressive and comfortable in high-intensity systems, attributes that suit Atlético’s traditional identity.
Estupiñán provides consistent overlaps and recovery speed, but his availability depends on Milan’s willingness to sell mid-season. Any deal would likely come at a premium, particularly given their shortage in that department.
Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella would be the top candidate for the majority of Atlético fans and decision makers. His incredible performances for both Chelsea and Spain in the last two to three seasons have established him as one of the most reliable defensive left-backs in the world.
It is that very reason that any sale, particularly in January, is highly unlikely. The financial strength of the Premier League means a club like Chelsea have no need to sell a key asset, while the player would unlikely force a move to a different team with a completely different system six months before the 2026 World Cup.