Mikautadze to Villarreal

Villarreal sealed a deadline-day deal for Georges Mikautadze, the 25-year-old forward arriving from Olympique Lyonnais.

Mikautadze brings pace, sharp finishing, and the versatility to operate across the front line. He fits the brief Villarreal set for a dynamic attacker who can unlock low blocks and support established stars.

Expect him to raise the tempo in the final third and deepen the options for domestic and European fixtures. With a résumé that includes impact performances for club and country, he looks poised to become a regular threat at El Madrigal.

Nicolás González joins Atlético Madrid

Atlético Madrid landed midfielder Nicolás González from Juventus in a deal that could reach €33M with performance add-ons.

González offers creativity, work rate, and ball progression—qualities Diego Simeone values as he refreshes his midfield after a period of transition.

He should rotate immediately, providing passing range and a shot from distance while easing the load on veteran options. Long term, he projects as a cornerstone piece for Atlético Madrid’s next core.

Why it matters

  • Clubs beyond the traditional “big two” continue to invest with intent.
  • Profiles skew young and versatile to handle league and European demands.
  • Deadline-day drama still delivers, keeping La Liga in the global spotlight.

Outlook

All eyes will be on Mikautadze’s transition into Villarreal’s attack and González’s integration into Atlético Madrid’s midfield.

If both settle quickly, these late moves could shape the narrative of 2025/26—proof that decisive deadline business can tilt tight margins.

Sources: Football España