Sevilla sign Julio Diaz from Atletico Madrid on four-year deal
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Sevilla FC have completed the signing of Spain Under-20 international Julio Diaz from Atletico Madrid on a permanent basis, making the 20-year-old left-back the Andalusian club's fifth acquisition ahead of the 2026-27 La Liga season. The deal was confirmed on 29 July.
Transfer Details
Sevilla paid Atletico Madrid one million euros for 50 percent of Diaz's economic rights, with the Madrid club retaining a buy-back clause as part of the arrangement. The defender has put pen to paper on a four-year contract running until June 2030.
Diaz Joins a Growing Sevilla Squad
The left-back becomes the latest addition to Sevilla's summer recruitment drive, joining Arouna Sangante, Juan Iglesias, Jon Guridi, and goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos — whose loan spell was recently converted into a permanent transfer — as the club builds its roster for the new campaign.
What Diaz Said
The Madrid-born defender expressed his enthusiasm at joining the historic Andalusian outfit. 'I'm very happy and really looking forward to meeting everyone, my teammates, and showing that Sevilla will return to its rightful place. When Sevilla contacted me, I didn't hesitate for a second. It's a historic club, and I'm very excited,' Diaz told the club's official media.
Diaz also reflected on a memorable visit to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium during Atletico's league fixture there, where he registered an assist. 'You could feel the atmosphere, the people, the desire and hunger. That's what a player needs these days,' he said.
Background and Playing Style
Diaz spent the bulk of his formative years in Atletico Madrid's academy before progressing through the reserve side, where he featured for two seasons with Atletico Madrid B. He went on to make four senior appearances under manager Diego Simeone last season — a milestone he described as a childhood dream fulfilled.
Despite the emotional significance of that debut, Diaz was clear that his ambitions now lie entirely with Sevilla. 'It's every little kid's dream to make your debut in La Liga with Atletico Madrid because I'd been there since I was a little boy. But now I'm focused on Sevilla, and hopefully we can achieve great things,' he said.
Known for his high energy and attacking instincts, Diaz outlined the attributes he intends to bring to Sevilla. 'I'm a very aggressive player who never gives up on a ball. I want to bring youth and a lot of hunger. I like to attack, but I also feel strong defensively,' he added.
Competition with Suazo
Diaz will compete for the left-back berth alongside experienced Chile captain Gabriel Suazo, a prospect he welcomed openly. 'We all know what Suazo is capable of. He's the kind of player every kid looks up to, and I'm looking forward to sharing a dressing room with him and learning everything from him,' Diaz said.
With Sevilla aiming to reassert themselves in La Liga after a difficult recent period, Diaz's arrival signals the club's intent to blend youth with ambition as the new season approaches.