Atletico Madrid confirm the signing of Mario Hermoso

With an already hectic summer window, Atletico Madrid confirmed another addition to their squad in the form of Espanyol defender, Mario Hermoso for £22 million.

The Spaniard had been consistently linked with a move to the Wanda Metropolitana and Diego Simeone finally has signed his man. The 24-year-old will join Los Rojiblancos on a five year deal.

? | Agreement with @RCDEspanyol for the transfer of @mariohermoso5.

?? The Spaniard has signed a contract with our club for the next five seasons ?

? Welcome, Mario! ?⚪?
? https://t.co/njZjsD8r0f #AúpaAtleti #WelcomeHermoso pic.twitter.com/5aM5RxfIjP

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) July 18, 2019

Hermoso, who has been at Espanyol for the past couple of seasons, came up through the academy ranks of city rivals, Real Madrid, joining the Catalonia based side following his contract expiring.

The Spanish international became an integral part of the side for Espanyol, with 35 appearances in 2018/19 as the side finished 7th in the league and solidified their spot in next seasons Europa League.

With the player having already experienced some time in the top flight and having recently earned his first few international call-ups to the Spanish national side. Hermoso joins his new side in the midst of a transitional period.

Atletico have seen key departures this window with Antoine Griezmann, Lucas Hernandez, Diego Godin and Juanfran all departing the club – having all been key figures in the side in recent years.

The club has recruited new faces throughout the team including Porto duo Hector Herrera and Felipe, Brazilian wonder-kid Renan Lodi and Benfica youth sensation, Joao Felix.

Hermoso joins the side as they prepare for their pre-season, kicking off against CD Numancia on July 20th, before they then take on Chivas De Guadalajara, city rivals Real Madrid, the MLS All-Stars, Atletico de San Luis and Juventus before kicking their league campaign off against last seasons surprise package, Getafe.