Atletico Madrid make contact with Benfica target Thiago Almada | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid are exploring a move to sign Lyon midfielder Thiago Almada in this transfer window (h/t journalist Fabrizio Romano).

The Argentine midfielder has been impressive for the Ligue 1 outfit since joining them on loan from Brazilian club Botafogo at the start of the year.

The 24-year-old bagged two goals and five assists in all competitions, helping Les Gones secure Europa League qualification.

He was also outstanding for the Argentine national team in their recent international break, making a strong case to feature in next year’s World Cup.

Having won their appeal to remain in Ligue 1 this season, Lyon are preparing a new loan offer to keep hold of Almada.

However, Portuguese giants Benfica have proposed a deal worth €28 million to secure his signature.

Almada has also given the green light to a move to Benfica, who will be playing in the Champions League this season.

Atletico have joined the transfer race, initiating contact to learn about Almada’s availability, price tag and wage demands.

The former Atlanta United star could be tempted to join the Argentine contingent at Atletico, which features Giuliano Simeone, Julian Alvarez, Rodrigo De Paul, Nahuel Molina and manager Diego Simeone.

Atletico are yet to present a concrete offer, meaning Benfica are still the front-runners to land Almada.

Almada is viewed as a potential replacement for his compatriot De Paul, who is nearing a move to Major League Soccer club Inter Miami.

The Lyon loanee could be one of the several midfield reinforcements for Atletico this summer.

After securing the transfer of Alex Baena, they are working to finalise a deal for Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Exequiel Palacios is also on their wishlist.