Atlético Madrid Pursues Juventus Discount as Nico González Purchase Clause Nears Expiration

Atlético Madrid eyes a lower fee for Juventus loanee Nico González as his €32m mandatory purchase clause looks unlikely to be triggered this season.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 5:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

The Precarious State of a Conditional Agreement

Atlético Madrid’s long term plans for Nico González have entered a complex phase as the player approaches a critical contractual threshold. Currently on loan from Juventus for an initial fee of €1 million, González’s stay in the Spanish capital was intended to become permanent through an obligation to buy clause. According to Italian media reports, this €32 million obligation is triggered only if the winger features for at least 45 minutes in 21 of the club’s La Liga fixtures this season. As the campaign enters its final weeks, the likelihood of this clause being automatically activated has diminished, prompting the Atlético hierarchy to reconsider their financial strategy.

Evaluating the Minute Threshold and Appearances

While González has been a frequent presence in Diego Simeone’s matchday squads, his actual playing time has recently fluctuated. Although the 28 year old has participated in 22 league matches thus far, providing three goals, he has only met the specific 45 minute requirement in 15 of those encounters. According to reports from Football Italia, this leaves a gap of six qualifying appearances needed from the remaining seven league fixtures. With González only reaching the required duration twice in the last seven matches, Atlético is reportedly preparing for a scenario where the mandatory clause expires, allowing for fresh negotiations.

Strategic Satisfaction Amid Financial Caution

Despite the desire to lower the transfer fee, Atlético Madrid remains genuinely satisfied with the tactical value González has brought to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The Argentine international has provided much-needed width and work rate in Simeone’s system, helping the club secure a recent Copa del Rey victory and a deep run in the UEFA Champions League. According to sources close to the club, the Rojiblancos are keen to retain González for the 2026/27 season, but they are wary of committing the full €32 million amid broader budgetary constraints. The club’s preference is to reach a compromised figure that reflects the current market and the player’s specific contribution.