Latest developments
- Atletico Madrid are interested in Rodrigo Bentancur.
- Spanish side have made initial contact.
- Tottenham Hotspur midfielder is set to enter final 12 months of his contract.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4.5/5): Atletico eyeing Bentancur move
Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur in the summer transfer window.
That is according to Spanish outlet Relevo, who claim that Atletico have already made contact over a potential deal, although there have been no formal negotiations.
Value (4/5): Opportunity for cut-price deal
Atletico will sense there is a chance to secure Bentancur for a cut-price fee due to his contract situation. The Uruguayan's current deal expires in the summer of 2026, meaning Tottenham may have to sell this summer or run the risk of him leaving on a free transfer next year.
Suitability (4/5): Suited to Simeone's style
As a tenacious midfielder, Bentancur appears to have all the attributes of someone who could fit seamlessly into Diego Simeone's aggressive style at the Metropolitano.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Potential De Paul partner
Atletico currently have a number of midfield options, including Rodrigo De Paul, Koke, Pablo Barrios and Conor Gallagher, although the latter has been utilised off the left under Simeone.
Bentancur would have to compete with the likes of Koke and Barrios to partner De Paul in the middle of the park.
Logic (4/5): Opportunity to play Champions League football
Bentancur has featured in 37 Champions League matches in his career, but only six of those appearances have come in a Tottenham shirt. Spurs are currently on course to miss out on European football altogether unless they can go all the way in the Europa League.
In contrast, Atletico are all but guaranteed Champions League football and regulars in the competition, which will surely appeal to the 28-year-old midfielder.
Whisper+ verdict: 20/25
This feels like a transfer rumour that has legs, especially if Tottenham fail to secure European football next season. Atletico Madrid are keen to recruit a new central midfielder, with Bentancur looking like a suitable candidate to strengthen Simeone's side.
