Atletico Madrid strengthen midfield with signing of Rodrigo de Paul

MADRID -- La Liga Champions Atletico Madrid on Monday announced the signing of Argentinean international midfielder Rodrigo de Paul from the Italian side, Udinese.

The agreement has been made public two days after the 27-year-old played an important role in helping Argentina win the Copa America in Brazil, beating the hosts 1-0 in the final this weekend.

He has signed a five-year contract to keep him at the club until the end of June 2026 after a successful season in Italy saw him score nine goals and give 10 assists.

De Paul will give even further options to Atletico's midfield, which already counts on players such as Spain internationals Koke and Marcos Llorente. However, it does open the door for Saul Niguez, who has been linked with a move away from the club after seeing his presence in the team fall significantly last season.

De Paul is Atletico's second signing of the summer, following the arrival of young Brazilian forward Marcos Paulo on a free transfer from Fluminense.