It's been reported that Atlético Madrid are looking to sign a new central midfielder in January, despite the arrival of Conor Gallagher during the summer and the increased prominence of Pablo Barrios. So, why is this? It looks like Thomas Lemar will need to be replaced soon.

Lemar hasn't been able to make his mark at Atleti since he suffered a serious injury at the start of the 2023-24 season. He finally made his comeback last month, but it's unlikely he'll get much playing time before the winter transfer window opens.

When that happens, the word is that Atleti will try to find a new club for Lemar, who originally joined Los Colchoneros in 2018 for a reported fee of €70m. It's more likely to be a loan than a permanent sale, but given his wages, any departure will do during the winter.

Lemar's time at Atlético Madrid has been pretty disappointing, and it's likely to end in 2025. We'll have to wait and see if he's on his way out in January.