OFFICIAL: Atlético sign Gelson Martins as Simeone rebuilds his squad back to health

Atlético Madrid have signed Gelson Martins after weeks of speculation. The winger arrives from Portugal on a free transfer and signs for five years (even though Atlético’s official site initially said it was for six seasons).

Sporting Clube de Portugal are currently in meltdown mode, with several players having left the club, including goalkeeper Rui Patricio (Wolves) and William Carvalho (Real Betis). These players released themselves unilaterally from the contracts and Sporting have requested compensation from FIFA from their new clubs. It has not been stated if Atlético will be forced to send the Portuguese club any money.

Gelson becomes the fifth summer signing after Rodri, Thomas Lemar, Antonio Adán and Nehuen Perez — and full back Jonny Castro could potentially come in from Celta Vigo, and he would be loaned out to Wolves upon arrival.

Diego Simeone is slowly rebuilding his squad after it was gutted last winter, when Yannick Carrasco and Nico Gaitán were both sold without being replaced.

A quick appraisal of Gelson’s skills from Portuguese football analyst Tiago Estêvão suggests he is ideal for Atlético and Simeone’s style.

Simeone was asked about the Portugal international’s signing today in Singapore, where Atlético are preparing for International Champions Cup fixtures.

“Gelson is a guy who keeps growing, we saw it last year,” he said. “His characteristics can help us, he offers competition on the right and offensively if we play with three up top. He gives us speed and in today’s game, that’s very important.”

Seems as of now it’s a win-win for Atlético, who get a young and talented player for little or nothing. And they add to their strong summer as Simeone continues to grow his squad.