Midfielder Preps for the Final La Liga Match and Conference League Final, While Atlético Madrid Show Interest
Johnny Cardoso finds himself at the center of a transfer storm as Real Betis prepare for their final La Liga match against Valencia on Friday. Still, the United States international remains laser-focused on making history with his current club.
Despite being Atlético Madrid's primary midfield target for the summer window, Cardoso has maintained his composure ahead of Betis' crucial Conference League final against Chelsea next Wednesday. "My mentality is here now," the 23-year-old stated during UEFA's Open Media Day, emphasizing his commitment to the present rather than speculation about his future.
Diego Simeone has identified the New Jersey-born midfielder as the ideal solution to Atlético's long-standing need for a defensive midfielder. After failed attempts to sign Atalanta's Éderson and limited success with Arthur Vermeeren, who was loaned to Leipzig after just seven months, Simeone sees Cardoso as the perfect blend of youth and La Liga experience.
The financial dynamics are complex, with Cardoso carrying an €80 million release clause, though sources suggest this figure is negotiable. However, Tottenham Hotspur holds a priority option on the USMNT star, potentially complicating any potential deal with Atlético.
Cardoso's immediate focus remains on Wednesday's Conference League final in Poland, where Betis could claim their first-ever European trophy. The midfielder briefly missed training this week due to a minor knock but quickly reassured fans, stating, "I'm fine, everything is going very well."
With his family, including his parents and girlfriend, traveling to Poland for support, Cardoso dreams of scoring in the final while maintaining his professional focus. Tonight's match against Valencia serves as Betis' final preparation for their European showdown, with the club having secured sixth place and qualification for the Europa League next season. The fixture has been moved to Friday to give Betis extra preparation time, though this decision has frustrated Chelsea's management.
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