Rodrigo de Paul from Udinese to Atlético Madrid - As expensive as Morata

Record transfer for Italians 

The deal has been in the works for some time and with the conclusion of the Copa América is now concluded. South America champion Rodrigo de Paul leaves Udinese Calcio after five years and joins Atlético Madrid. The 27-year-old signed a contract that will keep him at the Spanish champions until 2026. The transfer fee is €35 million, just below the Argentine's market value of €38 million. 

De Paul, who has been the captain and since 2016 has scored 34 goals and 36 assists in 184 games, becomes the most expensive departure in Udinese's club history. He replaces Márcio Amoroso; the Brazilian striker joined Parma in 1999 in a deal worth €28 million. At Atlético, only six players were more expensive, he shares seventh place with Álvaro Morata and Jackson Martínez. This summer only four players were more expensive than the Argentine national team player. 

“I’m very happy, I’m going to join LaLiga’s champion and I’m conscious of the responsibility it carries," de Paul said in a club statement. It is a big step in my football career. Moreover, because of the timing, just after winning the Copa América. This fills me with the strength to meet all expectations."

At a glance: Udinese's record sales / Atlético's record transfers / The most expensive players 2021/22