Classy, experienced Premier League defenders with price tags that say FREE: Atletico are buzzing

Experience is essential at the top level, and that's why every coach who knows what's good for him has a few veterans in their team. To have players who have seen it all before, been there, done that and everything in between - it's a priceless thing to have. And for Atletico Madrid - it came for free!

Defenders Caglar Soyuncu and Cesar Azpilicueta joined the red-and-whites of Madrid on free transfers from Leicester City and Chelsea, respectively.

Turkish centre-back Soyuncu agreed to join the Spanish clubs just after the World Cup, and now his arrival has been confirmed on a four-year contract. The 27-year-old, who previously played for Freiburg in Germany, as well as Altinordu, Belediyespor, Bucaspor and Gumusorduspor in his homeland, played 132 times for Leicester and notably won the FA Cup in 2021. However, his last season with the Foxes ended in relegation, with the Turk's injuries limiting his input in the troubled team.

"This is a legendary club with a legendary coach. I can't wait to work with Diego Simeone, learn from him and follow his commands. I've been injured over the past year, but I'm ready to work now. I heard Atletico Madrid is like a family and it certainly feels like that."

Chelsea legend Azpilicueta signed a one-year contract with the Spanish club after his 11-year association with the Blues ended. In 508 matches with the English team, Azpilicueta claimed nine club titles: one EFL Cup, one FA Cup, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, one FIFA Club World Cup, two UEFA Europa Leagues, and two Premier League titles.

Griezmann's got back his '7', which means Felix's time at Atleti is over

He was asked whether he wanted a longer contract upon his return to Spain - to which his reply was cool.

"I'm 33 years old. Nobody is going to offer me a five-year deal. I'm just happy to be here and I hope I can be useful for the team."

Atletico finalized the signing of another defender today. Uruguayan 21-year-old centre-back Alvaro Santiago Mourino Gonzalez signed a five-year contract to become red-and-white. He previously played for Club Nacional and Racing Club de Montevideo in his homeland.