Atletico Madrid have officially completed the signing of David Hancko from Feyenoord, securing the Slovakian defender in a dramatic turn of events following the collapse of his proposed move to Al-Nassr. The 27-year-old center-back becomes Atletico’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window in a deal worth approximately €30 million plus add-ons.
Atlético de Madrid and Feyenoord have reached an agreement over the transfer of Dávid Hancko to our club, pending the completion of the medical test and the signing of his new contract, the Spanish club announced on their official website. As per Fabrizio Romano, Atleti will pay €30m plus add-ons for Hancko, representing excellent value for a player of his caliber and experience.
The transfer is a big coup for Diego Simeone’s side, with the 27-year-old Slovakian defender having already agreed in principle to a contract until June 2030 with the Spanish side. This long-term commitment demonstrates both parties’ belief in the partnership’s potential success.
Dramatic Circumstances Leading to Transfer
The path to Atletico Madrid was far from straightforward for Hancko. Spanish and Dutch media said Feyenoord had originally reached an agreement with Al-Nassr for Hancko’s transfer, but the Saudi team — where Cristiano Ronaldo plays — reportedly backed away at the last minute. This unexpected development opened the door for Atletico Madrid to revive their long-standing interest in the defender.
The Slovakian centre-back had agreed a €35 million transfer with the Saudi Pro League giants, who pulled the plug on the deal at the last moment, creating a unique opportunity for Los Colchoneros to secure one of Europe’s most sought-after defenders at a reduced price.
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Player Profile and Career Background
Born in Prievidza in 1997, Hancko has established himself as one of Europe’s most reliable center-backs during his time in the Netherlands. With 140 appearances, 15 goals, and 12 assists for Feyenoord, Hancko’s versatility suits Diego Simeone’s system, making him an ideal addition to Atletico’s defensive setup.
The Slovakia international has proven his worth at the highest level, serving as Feyenoord’s captain and demonstrating the leadership qualities that Simeone values in his squad. His ability to contribute both defensively and in attack, evidenced by his impressive goal and assist tally, adds a new dimension to Atletico’s defensive options.
Hancko’s arrival addresses Atletico Madrid’s need for defensive reinforcement following several departures this summer. Hancko can easily serve a function similar to what Simeone would have asked from Veiga: make this defense more modern, with his versatility allowing him to operate as both a center-back and left-back depending on tactical requirements.
The signing is a shift in Atletico’s transfer strategy, with the club opting for proven experience over potential. Hancko’s track record of success (even in a lower-quality league) is more to the club’s liking, as is the price, roughly €10 million below Chelsea’s ask for Veiga, demonstrating shrewd business from the Spanish giants.
Previous Interest and Long-Term Pursuit
This transfer concludes a lengthy pursuit that began over a year ago. Hancko expressed interest in Atletico last summer, but their €20m bid was rejected. The increased bid of €30 million plus add-ons reflects both Hancko’s improved market value and Atletico’s determination to secure his services.
The player’s openness to the move has been evident throughout the process, with Hancko expressing in an interview with Algemeen Dagblad that he is open to leaving Feyenoord if a great opportunity arises. This positive attitude bodes well for his integration into Simeone’s demanding tactical system.
Impact on Summer Transfer Window
Atletico Madrid have completed their sixth signing of the summer transfer window, with David Hancko joining from Feyenoord, highlighting the club’s ambitious approach to squad building. This takes their summer spending over significant levels as they prepare for domestic and European competition.
The Hancko signing also appears to have influenced other transfer decisions, with reports suggesting it may impact their pursuit of other defensive targets as the club balances their squad composition and financial commitments.
Born from the dramatic collapse of his Al-Nassr move, the signing shows Atletico’s ability to capitalize on unexpected opportunities while securing a player they had long coveted. With his combination of experience, versatility, and leadership qualities, Hancko appears perfectly suited to thrive under Diego Simeone’s guidance as Los Rojiblancos continue their ambitious summer reconstruction.
