Atletico Madrid agree €30m deal to sign Johnny Cardoso | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with Real Betis for the signing of midfielder Johnny Cardoso, according to Marca.

After weeks of intense negotiations, Los Roijblancos have now finalised a transfer fee worth €30 million plus €2m in add-ons.

The United States star will sign a five-year deal with Atletico, with the official announcement expected in the coming days.

The La Liga giants earmarked Cardoso as their top target to strengthen their midfield, having closely tracked his stellar rise at Betis.

The 23-year-old has shown a great desire to move to the Wanda Metropolitano, which helped Atletico beat several top clubs in the transfer race.

Cardoso has become an integral part of Manuel Pellegrini’s side since his move from Internacional last year.

He bagged four goals and an assist in 46 games last season, playing a pivotal role in Betis’ finishing sixth in La Liga and as runners-up in the Europa Conference League.

Cardoso is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in La Liga, averaging 2.31 tackles, 2.01 interceptions and 2.69 clearances per game.

His physicality and aerial dominance will bring steeliness to Atletico’s midfield.

With club legend Koke entering the final year of his career, Cardoso has the potential to lead the midfield for the foreseeable future.

He will feature alongside Conor Gallagher, Pablo Barrios, Marcos Llorente and Rodrigo De Paul in Atletico’s engine room.

Villarreal’s Alex Baena will follow Cardoso as the next major summer acquisition for Atletico.