Axel Witsel is set to complete his move to Atletico Madrid in the coming days. The midfielder left Borussia Dortmund as a free agent upon the expiry of his contract, and has now finalised a one-year deal with Diego Simeone’s side.

The manager wanted only Witsel to replace the outgoing Hector Herrera, and now has his man. The Belgium international will become the first new signing for El Cholo in the summer transfer window.

Axel Witsel to join Atletico Madrid

Axel Witsel's set to join Atlético Madrid on a free move, full agreement in place. Paperworks ready, contract will be valid until June 2023. Here we go. ⚪️🔴🤝 #Atleti @MatteMoretto

Simeone wanted Witsel to replace Herrera in the team for this season.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 23, 2022

The defensive midfielder spent four years in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund, between 2018 and 2022. He won the DFB Pokal and German Super Cup with them and is now set to embark on a new challenge.

The 33-year-old had an offer from Marseille and Aston Villa as well, but instead chose to compete in Spain with the Rojiblancos. Axel Witsel’s experience will be important in the middle of the park as the team tries to get back to the level that they were only a while ago.

Atletico Madrid will have to be active in the transfer market and sign key players to improve the squad if they are to challenge their rivals domestically. On the other hand, Borussia Dortmund have been very busy in the market. They have already confirmed the signing of several players, with a new era visibly in place at the black and yellow club.