Manchester United Women are reportedly interested in signing Andrea Medina from Atlético Madrid Femenino this summer, according to Irati Vidal.
The 21-year-old left-back is regarded as one of the brightest defensive talents in Spanish football and has become a key figure for Atlético Madrid over the past few seasons. Manchester United’s reported interest comes as the club looks to strengthen its defensive options ahead of the 2026/27 campaign and continue building a squad capable of competing for major honours in both the Women’s Super League and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Andrea Medina has enjoyed a rapid rise since making her professional breakthrough with Real Betis Féminas at just 15 years old. Her performances quickly established her as one of Spain’s standout young defenders, leading Atlético Madrid to secure her signature in 2022 on a long-term deal.
Since arriving in Madrid, Medina has developed into one of Atlético’s most reliable players. Despite her young age, she has already surpassed 100 appearances for the club and has become a regular starter in Liga F and European competition.
Why Manchester United want Andrea Medina
Manchester United are believed to admire Medina’s versatility, athleticism and technical ability. Primarily deployed as a left-back, the Spain youth international is also capable of playing centrally in defence, making her an attractive option for modern tactical systems.
Known for her aggressive pressing, overlapping runs and composure in possession, Medina fits the profile of the modern attacking full-back. Her ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases has made her one of the most highly-rated young defenders in Europe.
The Spanish defender also brings significant experience despite being only 21 years old. She has already featured regularly in high-pressure matches for Atlético Madrid and has built an impressive résumé at international level with Spain’s youth teams.
Medina won the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup with Spain in 2022 and also lifted back-to-back UEFA Women’s Under-19 European Championships in 2022 and 2023. Her performances at youth level further strengthened her reputation as one of the country’s future senior internationals.
A key player for Atlético Madrid
Losing Medina would represent a major setback for Atlético Madrid, where she has become an important part of the club’s long-term project. During the 2025/26 season, she was among Atlético’s most-used players and received praise from supporters and Spanish media alike for her consistency and leadership.
Her influence at the club extends beyond her performances on the pitch. Many within Spanish football view Medina as a future leader for Atlético Madrid due to her mentality, work ethic and connection with supporters.
Earlier this season, the defender also received widespread support after suffering a serious head injury during a UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Juventus. Atlético Madrid later confirmed she was recovering well, and the incident highlighted how highly respected she is across the women’s game.
For Manchester United, signing a player of Medina’s profile would represent another statement of intent as the club continues to compete with Europe’s elite. With her experience, potential and proven quality in Liga F, Andrea Medina could become one of the most exciting defensive additions of the summer transfer window.
What would Andrea Medina mean for Manchester United’s defence?
Manchester United Women already possess one of the strongest defensive units in the Women’s Super League, with the back line regularly featuring Dominique Janssen, Maya Le Tissier, Fridolina Rolfö and Gabby George, while players such as Jayde Riviere and Anna Sandberg have also played important roles throughout the season.
The squad already offers significant depth and versatility, with several defenders capable of operating in midfield as well as across the back line. However, Manchester United’s reported interest in Andrea Medina could suggest that further changes are expected this summer.
Adding Medina would increase competition at left-back and provide another young, high-level option capable of fitting into multiple tactical systems. Her attacking qualities and defensive intensity would suit the fast, aggressive style United have developed under Marc Skinner, while her experience in Liga F and European competition would add further quality to the squad.
At the same time, the move naturally raises questions about potential departures. With United already well-stocked defensively, signing another full-back may indicate that some players could be allowed to leave during the transfer window, whether permanently or on loan.
So far, Manchester United have confirmed their first departure of the summer, with Leah Galton leaving the club after eight years following the expiration of her contract. Galton joined United in 2018 as part of the club’s first-ever professional women’s squad and, alongside Ella Toone and Millie Turner, became one of the original foundations of the team.
During her time at Manchester United, Galton scored 35 goals, helped the club win the Women’s FA Cup and played a key role in United’s debut UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign. Her departure could mark the beginning of a wider squad reshuffle as the club looks to strengthen ahead of next season.
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