Atletico Madrid shake-up could see Memphis Depay and Alvaro Morata move

The Dutch forward, who joined Atletico in January 2023 from FC Barcelona for €3 million, will become a free agent as his contract, originally set to last until 2025, will not be extended, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Depay's time at Atletico has been marked by intermittent brilliance but marred by injuries and inconsistent playing time. He managed to score nine goals and provide two assists in just 1,202 minutes on the pitch. Overall, he recorded 13 goals and two assists in 40 appearances, showcasing moments of brilliance in games against Granada and Inter Milan in the Champions League.

However, his frequent absences and fitness issues have led to frustration from Atletico manager Diego Simeone. Media reports suggest that Simeone has grown increasingly disillusioned with Depay's lack of availability, further straining their relationship.

FC Barcelona, which hold a 50% sell-on clause for Depay, will also miss out financially as the 30-year-old leaves on a free transfer. Depay's departure allows him the freedom to negotiate with any club of his choice this summer.

In another development, Alvaro Morata's future at Atletico is also in doubt. The Spanish forward has been linked with a move away from the club following a series of inconsistent performances.

Morata, who has scored 21 goals (15 in La Liga) this season, making him Atletico's top scorer, has found the net just three times in his last 22 games in 2024. This dip in form has raised questions about his role in Simeone's plans.

Morata nearly left Atletico last summer but was persuaded to stay by Simeone. However, recent events, including being benched and substituted at half-time in the Champions League quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund, have reignited his desire to move on.

According to Cadena SER, Juventus, where Morata has previously played and where his wife is from, remain interested in bringing him back to Italy. The Italian giants would need to meet his €15 million release clause, a sum they are reportedly willing to pay.

As Atletico Madrid prepare for the summer transfer window, the departures of Depay and potentially Morata highlight a period of transition for the club. Fans will be keenly watching how these changes unfold and what new faces will arrive at the Wanda Metropolitano to bolster Simeone's squad for the upcoming season.