Atlético Madrid's preference does not seem to go to David Hancko after all, reports Relevo. Diego Simeone would rather see Aymeric Laporte come over from Al-Nassr than the central defender from Feyenoord.

It has been known for some time that Atlético are looking for reinforcements for the last line. One of the names that was recently mentioned was that of Hancko, who should cost around 25 million euros.

However, Simeone's preference seems to be for Laporte, who became European champion with Spain and is keen to return to the country for which he plays his international matches. The man-marker previously played in Spain for Athletic Club.

Although Laporte still has two years left on his contract with Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr, his desire to return to LaLiga is being seen as an incentive to put pressure on his current employers.

Simeone is Laporte's biggest advocate, it is said. For the Argentine coach it is important that a player comes who knows his competitors, plays at the top level and is part of the Spanish team.

Laporte meets all those criteria. The arrival of the Spaniard is therefore seen as less of a risk than Hancko, who excels weekly at Feyenoord, but does not have a club of the size of Manchester City behind his name.

The downside is that Laporte's arrival involves more money. Where Hancko can reportedly be acquired for 25 million, the Spaniard will cost at least 30 million. It will therefore not be an easy operation, it is expected.

Feyenoord is in a good negotiating position regarding Hancko in any case. The 42-times international of Slovakia has had a good European Championship behind him, is contracted until mid-2028 and, according to Transfer market worth about 35 million euros.

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