Atlético Nacional transfer activity

In late July 2026, Colombian side Atlético Nacional was in advanced negotiations to acquire 26‑year‑old winger Ian Poveda, a free agent after leaving Internacional de Bogotá. The club had agreed on salary and a season‑and‑a‑half contract, with the remaining point of discussion a future‑transfer‑rights clause.

By early August, reports indicated the deal was close to completion, with Poveda expected to undergo a medical exam before finalising the move to Medellín, a target of coach Lucas González. The coverage also contrasted Poveda’s prospective signing with the struggles of former Nacional forward Marino Hinestroza, whose 2024 move to Brazil’s Vasco da Gama had not yielded the expected performance and saw him miss the 2026 World Cup squad.

By August 6, the club's squad restructuring under manager Lucas González and new sporting director Víctor Marulanda accelerated. Atlético Nacional secured the return of Argentine goalkeeper Franco Armani from River Plate. In addition to Poveda, who remains expected to undergo medical examinations, the club is reportedly negotiating for defender Andrés Reyes and Argentine midfielder Elías Cabrera. Furthermore, players Kevin Parra, Yeicar Perlaza, and Luis Maquínez are returning to the squad to bolster the roster for the upcoming Liga BetPlay tournament.

By August 17, the club officially confirmed the signings of Ian Poveda, Andrés Reyes, and Elías Cabrera to strengthen the roster. Management has committed financial backing to these acquisitions as the club aims to reclaim domestic titles and return to international competition. While the professional squad is training at the Guarne sports complex, the resumption of the local tournament has been temporarily suspended by Dimayor following a strong earthquake in Colombia.