The club has lost out on Bernardo Silva, who has agreed to join Real Madrid, and attention is turning instead to Kang-in Lee as a potential reinforcement for an attacking unit facing several departures.
Antoine Griezmann is already confirmed to be leaving the club, while speculation continues to swirl around a possible move for Julián Álvarez to FC Barcelona and interest from Juventus in Alexander Sørloth. Atletico Madrid's hierarchy is said to be weighing offensive options for the window regardless of how those situations resolve.
Thiago Almada, the 24-year-old Argentina international, could become the latest name to depart. The World Cup winner has struggled to establish himself under Diego Simeone, making around 40 appearances across competitions for roughly 1,700 minutes, contributing four goals and two assists.
Should an offer arrive that satisfies Atlético's board, the club is prepared to let the midfielder leave.
Interest from South American football has already been notable, with River Plate in Argentina and Flamengo in Brazil both monitoring his situation. Now, according to reports from Italy, a major European club has entered the conversation.
Napoli are understood to have placed Almada on their list of targets, with serious consideration reportedly being given to an approach for the Argentina international.
Reports suggest the Italian club could offer in the region of €20 million, while Atlético's valuation is closer to €25 million. Almada remains under contract at the Metropolitano until 2030, giving the Spanish club leverage to hold out for their asking price.
Much may depend on how Almada performs at the World Cup with Argentina, a stage on which he has often shown a higher level than at club level. A strong tournament could push his value higher still, a development that would work in Atlético's favour given the length of contract still to run.