Atletico Madrid have officially confirmed the signing of Fluminense winger Marcos Paulo as a free agent. The player’s contract with the Brazilian club expired a week ago, and he has now committed his foreseeable future to the Spanish capital.
Paulo has signed a five-year deal with the reigning La Liga champions until 2026, and also passed his medical assessment to be announced as a player for the Rojiblancos in the upcoming season. He has been on Atletico Madrid’s radar for a long time and is finally their player.
The young winger made 24 appearances for Fluminense in 20/21 and provided three goals and assists. Despite being a naturally right-footed player, the 20-year-old prefers to operate on the left wing. Since he is still young, he can be moulded into a very versatile player under Diego Simeone.
Interestingly, Paulo represents Portugal at the youth levels despite being born in Brazil and will now play his club football in Europe as well. He becomes the first formal signing of the summer for the Rojiblancos, and they are also expected to confirm the signing of Rodrigo De Paul from Udinese this month itself.
There were rumours that he would’ve been loaned out to gain playing time, but the coaching staff now seem willing to keep him available for selection. Vitolo is reportedly on the list for a move away, with numerous clubs willing to bring him in on loan.