Atletico Madrid Announce €35m De Paul Signing From Udinese
Spanish champions Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Udinese on a five-year contract.
Diego Simeone’s side have paid €35m for De Paul, who will be embarking on a second stint in Spain following an underwhelming spell with Valencia earlier on in his career.
De Paul was part of the Argentina side that recently won the 2021 Copa America in Brazil, providing the assist for Angel Di Maria’s winning goal against the host nation.
The 27-year-old had been Udinese’s main man since signing from Valencia in the summer of 2016. He scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in Serie A last season.
'I'm very happy, I'm going to join [the] champions and I'm conscious of the responsibility it carries,' De Paul stated in his first official words as a player of the club. 'It is a big step in my football career.
'Because of my experience in Spanish football, I know very well Atlético de Madrid, without counting with all the friends and colleagues I have playing in Spain.
'I'm very happy to have the opportunity of working under Simeone. I love football, it's part of my daily life, and having a manager [like him] is a privilege.'
De Paul has won 29 caps for the Argentina national team.
Atletico Madrid will be looking to defend the La Liga title when the Spanish top flight returns next month.
