Atletico Madrid begin planning for life after Jan Oblak with two young goalkeeping targets

Atletico Madrid have started planning for the eventual end of Jan Oblak’s time at the club, with River Plate’s Santiago Beltran and German goalkeeper Denis Simen being monitored as possible successors.

The Spanish club are not only focused on securing their goalkeeping options for the current season. They are also looking for a young goalkeeper who could learn from Oblak initially before taking over as the team’s first choice in future years.

Goalkeeping has been a major strength for Atletico in recent seasons. The club relied on Thibaut Courtois during his three loan spells before Oblak arrived in the summer of 2014. The Slovenian has since won the Zamora Trophy six times, making him the most decorated goalkeeper in the history of Spanish football.

Only a small number of goalkeepers have seriously challenged Oblak for his place, with Miguel Angel Moya and Juan Musso among the most notable, according to Spanish newspaper AS. Musso is currently in his third season with Atletico.

Oblak is now 33 and has a contract that runs until June 2028, prompting the club to assess potential long-term replacements.

Beltran attracts European interest

Beltran, the 22-year-old River Plate goalkeeper, is regarded as one of the leading candidates. He made a strong impression in 2026 and was given his first opportunity with the Argentina senior side by manager Lionel Scaloni.

His estimated market value is about 11m euros, according to Transfermarkt, while his River Plate contract runs until 2027 and contains a 25m euro release clause. The Argentine club have attempted to extend the agreement in recent months but have yet to reach a deal.

Juventus and Inter Milan are also interested in Beltran, while Atletico have sent scouts to watch him closely in recent weeks.

The 1.91m goalkeeper is noted for his physical strength, quick reactions, command of aerial balls and ability to save penalties. He is also considered to possess a strong character and the temperament to cope with pressure.

Those qualities have led to comparisons with fellow Argentina international Emiliano Martinez, particularly because of Beltran’s imposing presence and confidence. His Italian citizenship would also be an advantage for Atletico, as he would not occupy a place in the squad reserved for non-European players.

Beltran is expected to receive another chance with Argentina during the current international break, alongside Martinez and Musso.

Simen monitored in Germany

Atletico are also tracking 20-year-old German goalkeeper Denis Simen, who has shown promise in the Bundesliga.

Simen has made one Champions League appearance this season, against Atletico, in a match that finished 1-1 in Stuttgart.

After beginning the campaign affected by injury, the goalkeeper, who is on loan from Paderborn, established himself as a starter during the last four Bundesliga rounds.

Simen is 1.92m tall and has an estimated market value of about 10m euros, according to Transfermarkt. His strengths include his physical build, handling of crosses and rapid reflexes.

He is also part of the Germany Under-21 setup, and Atletico continue to follow his development before deciding whether he can eventually succeed Oblak.