Sofia Quijada
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Manchester City have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena as a potential attacking target for 2027, joining two other unnamed Premier League clubs in monitoring the Spanish international.
The Citizens were active in attack during the summer window, bringing in Allan from Palmeiras and Iliman Ndiaye from Everton as late additions. They also secured Mathys Detourbet and Jeremy Monga, both of whom were subsequently loaned out to Monaco and Swansea City respectively. With the window now closed, City are already mapping out further attacking reinforcements.
Three Premier League Clubs Circle Baena
According to Caught Offside, the Premier League trio could test the waters with formal offers in the new year, though any deal is considered more likely to materialise next summer. Atletico have demonstrated their resolve in transfer negotiations before, most visibly in their resistance to selling Julian Alvarez, and they are under no pressure to move Baena on. He is contracted at the Metropolitano until the summer of 2030, giving the Spanish club full control of any negotiation.
Baena’s Record at Villarreal and World Cup Impact
Baena joined Atletico last summer after producing 26 goals and 40 assists across 148 competitive appearances for Villarreal. His debut season in Madrid was difficult by comparison, with only five goal contributions in 46 matches.
The 25-year-old’s fortunes shifted at the World Cup, where he played a prominent role in Spain’s winning campaign, delivering two goal contributions across seven starts from eight games. That platform has carried directly into the new club season: Baena has already registered three goals and one assist in three outings.
A Successor to Griezmann’s Role?
With Antoine Griezmann now gone from the Atletico squad, Baena appears to be filling that creative void. Sustained form at this level will only intensify the transfer interest around him. Stay with TipsGG for the latest updates on this and all major transfer developments.