A former La Masia academy player alongside Lionel Messi and Cesc Fabregas, Pique returned to Barca from Manchester United in 2008 and has since racked up 659 appearances in all competitions, winning three Champions Leagues along the way.
But things have gone sour for him at Camp Nou this season. Fellow centre-backs Jules Kounde and Andreas Christensen have been signed from Sevilla and Chelsea respectively – the former in a €50m deal – and Pique has only played 134 minutes of football.
Pique’s contract signed in 2018 made him the best-paid defender in world football, and although he subsequently agreed to reduced terms during the coronavirus pandemic, Barca would still save some €53m should Pique retire.
But he reportedly has no intention of doing so, and Atletico could offer him a way to extend his career in the Spanish top flight, and indeed in the Champions League. The fact Atleti have Antoine Griezmann on loan from Barca could help their cause.
