Atletico Madrid strike a deal for Thomas Partey replacement

Atletico Madrid are reportedly on the verge of signing a suitable replacement for Thomas Partey in Valencia star Geoffrey Kondogbia.

Partey’s sudden deadline day move to Arsenal left Atletico Madrid in a tricky position. The Gunners, from literally out of nowhere, deposited the midfielder’s €50m release clause to LaLiga and signed him with mere hours left of the summer transfer window.

Due to the unusual situation, Diego Simeone was granted an extra month to find a replacement. And with his extended deadline to expire on November 5, the head coach has seemingly struck a deal for Kondogbia.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Atletico and the player’s club Valencia have reached an €11m agreement plus add-ons. Los Che will also receive 10% from any future sale. Personal terms between Kondogbia and the Rojiblancos, meanwhile, have been agreed on.

Geoffrey Kondogbia to Atlético Madrid, here we go! Final fee to Valencia will be €11m + 10% future sale + add ons. Personal terms also agreed. Official soon.

He’ll join Atléti immediatly as Thomas replacement [special rule by La Liga]. ⚪️🔴 #Atleti #transfers @MatteMoretto

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 31, 2020

An official announcement is expected soon, with the 27-year-old to undergo a medical in Madrid on Sunday.

Kondogbia hasn’t played for Valencia since October 3, nor trained since Atletico expressed an interest. Hopes of putting him straight into the team, therefore, appear unlikely at the moment.

But Valencia are arguably the biggest losers on this deal as they can’t sign a replacement for Kondogbia until the January transfer window opens.