Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso seals move to Atletico Madrid

The 23-year-old defensive midfielder, known for his tenacity and tactical intelligence, is poised to play a pivotal role as Diego Simeone looks to sharpen his squad ahead of the new LaLiga campaign.

Sources close to the deal revealed that Cardoso was a top priority for Simeone, who's been keen to reinforce his defensive midfield options following a mixed season. While Tottenham held a priority option to sign the USMNT star - part of the 2024 arrangement involving Giovani Lo Celso's move to Betis-Cardoso will instead continue his LaLiga journey with Atletico.

Born in the U.S. but carrying Brazilian roots and an Italian passport, Cardoso brings valuable flexibility to Simeone's lineup without occupying a non-EU spot, a critical factor in squad management. After honing his skills in Brazil, Cardoso transitioned to European football with Betis in the 2023-24 season, quickly becoming a key figure under Manuel Pellegrini's guidance.

Cardoso debuted for the U.S. senior team in 2020 against Wales and has since earned 22 caps. His accolades include back-to-back Concacaf Nations League titles in 2023 and 2024. Despite a recent muscle injury that sidelined him from Mauricio Pochettino's squad in March, the midfielder remains a rising star on the international stage.

Atletico isn't stopping there. On the same day, the club confirmed the signing of 24-year-old Argentine Thiago Almada from Botafogo, injecting creativity into their ranks. The squad has also been bolstered by new arrivals Alex Baena from Villarreal and 22-year-old Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta.

Simeone's side, which finished a solid third behind Real Madrid and Barcelona last season, is clearly plotting a strong push to reclaim dominance in LaLiga, aiming to improve upon their disappointing Club World Cup group stage exit.

With Cardoso now in their ranks, Atletico Madrid looks ready to tighten their midfield and elevate their challenge in Spain and Europe.