Real Madrid take another Atlético prospect as Rajado joins La Fábrica

Atlético Madrid spent ten years developing him. Real Madrid monitored his situation, waited for his contract to be terminated and offered him a new start on the other side of the city. Jorge Rajado has now joined La Fábrica.

The 20-year-old will initially be registered with Real Madrid C, although the plan also includes opportunities with Castilla. Madrid are not merely filling a place in their second reserve team. They have acquired a player who was recently considered one of the leading prospects in Atlético’s academy.

TEN YEARS AT ATLÉTICO

Rajado joined Atlético’s academy in 2016 and progressed through its youth categories before representing the under-19 side, Atlético C and Atlético Madrileño. Fernando Torres handed him his Primera Federación debut two years ago.

Atlético once had considerable plans for the midfielder and winger. In 2024, the club extended his contract until June 2028 and noted that The Guardian had included him among the 60 most promising players born in 2006.

Recurring injury problems slowed his progress, but Rajado still made 16 appearances for Atlético C last season and helped the team earn promotion. He also made an impact in the UEFA Youth League, scoring against Maccabi Haifa before converting the decisive penalty in the shootout.

MADRID SAW AN OPPORTUNITY

Atlético officially confirmed that Rajado’s contract had been terminated by mutual agreement. The club thanked him for his work during a decade in its academy but did not identify his next destination.

Shortly afterwards, the player appeared on social media wearing his new Real Madrid shirt. According to AS, La Fábrica had been monitoring him for some time and moved when he became available without a transfer fee.

Rajado will start with Real Madrid C but is expected to receive opportunities with Castilla during the season. He already has experience in Primera Federación and has represented Spain at under-17 and under-18 level.

ANOTHER MOVE ACROSS MADRID

Transfers between the academies of Real Madrid and Atlético have become more frequent since the end of their informal non-aggression agreement in 2022. Jesús Fortea’s move to Valdebebas was one of the first significant examples.

Players have moved in both directions. Atlético recently recruited Álvaro Vega from Real Madrid, and the 16-year-old has already made his debut for Fernando Torres’ side. Madrid, however, have been particularly active in identifying players developed by their local rivals.

Rajado is the latest example of that approach. Real Madrid are not paying a major fee or demanding an immediate contribution to José Mourinho’s first team. They have signed a talented young player without a transfer fee and can now give him time to regain consistency.

A LOW-RISK BET FOR LA FÁBRICA

Rajado can operate on the wing or move into central positions. His technique, powerful shooting and ability to play between the lines helped establish his reputation in Atlético’s academy.

This is not a signing expected to change Madrid’s first team immediately. Moves of this kind are judged over several seasons rather than several training sessions.

Atlético have released a player they developed from childhood. Real Madrid now have an opportunity to assess one of their rival’s most highly regarded prospects with very little financial risk. Rajado must prove that La Fábrica chose the right moment to make its move.