Speculation mounts on Diego Godín’s possible Atlético return

Mundo Deportivo’s Javi Gómara — who broke the Luis Suárez transfer story in 2020 — reported Wednesday that Cagliari center-back Diego Godín will terminate his contract with the relegation candidates as he is eyeing an incredible reunion with Atlético Madrid.

José Ignacio Fernández, who wrote a book about the Atlético icon, has also said Godín would like to return to Madrid. The player acknowledges a move will be difficult to pull off, but Diego Simeone would be open to bringing him back.

Godín made 389 appearances for Atlético between 2010 and 2019, scoring the goal that delivered Atleti’s first league title in 18 years and going on to captain the club in his final season — departing as, arguably, its greatest-ever defender. He signed for Antonio Conte’s Inter Milan on a free transfer in 2019 and scored in the following season’s Europa League final loss to Sevilla before moving to Cagliari on a three-year pact.

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According to Gómara, Godín and his current club have now reached an agreement to rip up his contract so he can pursue a new opportunity as a free agent on Jan. 1. Cagliari are rock-bottom of Serie A with one win from 12 games, and Godín — who turns 36 in February — wants one more go at the top level.

And guess where he wants to be? At the Wanda Metropolitano, playing for Simeone and with Uruguay teammates Suárez and José Giménez once again.

It’s no secret the reigning Spanish champions are struggling defensively, and they will be looking for reinforcements either this winter or next summer. Should conversations about his return ramp up, Godín’s low cost (salary will reportedly not be an issue) and familiarity with the club will be selling points. However, his age and declining performances for club and country could be considered drawbacks to pursuing a deal.

Regardless, though, it would be truly stunning to see El Faraón wear red and white again. My gut tells me if Cholo pushes for it, the club will find a way to make it happen.