Atletico Madrid announced on Wednesday the signing of Alex Baena, who arrives from Villarreal for a fixed fee of €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons. The midfielder has signed a five-year contract, committing him to the club until 2030.
Following Atletico Madrid's early exit from the Club World Cup, the board has wasted no time in planning for the upcoming season. With aspirations of making a significant leap in quality, the club recognise the need for fresh faces in the squad.
After a series of contract renewals and the permanent acquisition of Lenglet and Musso, the Rojiblancos have put an end to speculation by announcing their first major signing: Alex Baena.
Atletico have officially confirmed the arrival of the midfielder from Villarreal, in a deal worth around €45 million upfront, with a further €5 million in potential add-ons. The player has put pen to paper on a five-year contract, committing his future until 2030.
Negotiations between the two clubs have been ongoing for some time, with initial discussions even considering the possibility of the player featuring in the Club World Cup for the Rojiblancos. However, an agreement wasn't reached until now, although Baena hinted at a farewell in his final match at La Ceramica.
Alex Baena's natural inclination has always been towards central midfield, particularly on the left side. However, in recent years, and especially this past season, the Andalusian has been deployed more as a winger, with considerable success.
This new position has seen him record seven goals and 10 assists this season. He ranked as the second-highest assist provider in La Liga (the highest in the left-wing position), only surpassed by Lamine Yamal (13).
Baena excels with the ball at his feet and is known for his precise passing. He is the player who makes the team tick, orchestrating attacks and creating danger. He has completed a total of 32 key passes in the league, the third-highest in the competition.
Furthermore, his success rate in delivering the ball into the area has been high, completing 95 out of 164 attempted (57.93%), once again ranking second only to Lamine Yamal.
He tops the list of players whose passes lead to shots, with a total of 88, and leads the ranking for successful passes into the final third in his position, with 117. Moreover, his position on the field doesn't exempt him from defensive duties, as he ranks fifth among left-wingers for ball recoveries in the final third (12) and sixth for defensive duels won (83).
Diego Simeone has secured a player capable of making a difference; one who provides that extra spark of quality and guides you to victory. A perfect partner for Julián Álvarez or Sorloth, and an ally for Pablo Barrios or Griezmann, among others. The Alex Baena era at Atletico Madrid is just beginning.