Atlético Madrid Defender Attracts Interest from Newcastle and Serie A Giants | OneFootball

Newcastle United Monitoring Nahuel Molina Situation

Interest in Atlético Madrid’s Nahuel Molina is reportedly building ahead of the summer transfer window, with Sport Witness relaying Marca’s claims that Newcastle United are one of several clubs to have “expressed interest” in the Argentine full-back.

With Napoli, Juventus and Roma also mentioned, there’s clearly European demand for the World Cup winner, who remains under contract with Atlético until 2027. At 27 years old and having made 43 appearances this season, Molina’s reputation is intact even if he isn’t always Diego Simeone’s first name on the team sheet.

Humble Professional Draws Admiration

Marca, the original Spanish source cited by Sport Witness, appear to be using their column inches to sing Molina’s praises more than push any transfer. They describe the player as being admired for “his humbleness and professionalism,” perhaps pre-empting speculation over his future or simply reaffirming his value to Atlético.

Photo: IMAGO

There’s a clear message in the tone of their reporting – Atlético Madrid want to keep him. Yet Marca’s decision to bring Newcastle United and Liverpool into the conversation suggests an effort to highlight Molina’s worth beyond La Liga.

Transfer Fee and Tactical Fit

Should Newcastle act on this reported interest, Marca believes the price tag would sit around €30m – a fair sum for a player of Molina’s calibre, with both domestic and international pedigree.

For Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side, the right-back slot isn’t in urgent need of repair, but with Kieran Trippier ageing and the club’s need for depth in European competition, the idea of succession planning isn’t far-fetched. Molina offers that hybrid role of right-back or right wing-back, and his 43 appearances this season indicate a player ready for consistent deployment.

Photo IMAGO

Liverpool’s Involvement Likely Over

While Liverpool were also said to be tracking Molina, Sport Witness report that “Liverpool look to have secured Jeremie Frimpong for that role,” effectively ruling out their ongoing interest. With Trent Alexander-Arnold still a core component at Anfield, Molina was never a guaranteed starter – merely a possible strategic reinforcement.

In truth, Liverpool’s inclusion in the article may serve more as a narrative hook than a genuine indicator of pursuit. As Sport Witness note, “the whole Marca article feels like an excuse to praise him and explain his importance, perhaps with Newcastle United and Liverpool dragged in for drama.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Newcastle United, Molina would be an intriguing, if not essential, addition. The right-back position is currently well-served by Kieran Trippier, but with the veteran entering the twilight of his career and Tino Livramento showing promise more as a rotation option, the Argentine could represent a medium-term solution.

At €30m, it’s not a throwaway fee, but considering his versatility, work rate, and high-level experience with both Argentina and Atlético Madrid, the value is there. Fans would likely warm to a player described by Spanish media for his “humbleness and professionalism,” traits that resonate with Newcastle’s team-first ethos under Howe.

However, there’s also a healthy scepticism about being used as leverage in European transfer stories. Newcastle supporters have seen it before – clubs or agents using their name to stir the pot. Unless there’s real movement behind the scenes, many will take this link with a pinch of salt.

Still, it’s one to monitor. If the club are seriously planning for Champions League-level depth and future-proofing Trippier’s spot, Molina ticks a lot of boxes – stylistically and professionally.