La Liga Transfer Update: Valencia Seals Malian International, Key Deals & Talks

This update covers the latest transfer activities as La Liga clubs prepare their strategies for the upcoming summer window.

Celta Vigo Nearing Contract Renewal for Key Defender

Celta Vigo's defender, Carl Starfelt, whose contract runs until 2027, has confirmed that discussions are underway regarding a new agreement. He stated, "I have one year left on my contract after this season. There’s no stress. But I think there have been some informal talks between the club and my agent. We’ll see how it all turns out."

Espanyol and Celta Compete for Elche Playmaker

Elche's talented midfielder, Aleix Febas, will also be a free agent this summer. While Espanyol has reportedly been close to securing his services for weeks, RadioMarca indicates that Celta Vigo is now actively pursuing the Galician player. Osasuna is also reportedly in contention, though behind the other two clubs.

Ajax Initiates Discussions with Girona

Following earlier reports that Ajax Sporting Director Jordi Cruyff was interested in Girona manager Michel Sanchez, Marca has now confirmed that negotiations between the two parties have commenced. Sanchez's contract is set to expire at the end of the current season. Separately, Girona might consider offloading former Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek, one of their highest earners, as he has endured another season plagued by injuries despite being under contract until 2028.

Osasuna Eyes Reunion with Midfielder Alvaro Reina

According to MD, Osasuna is showing interest in Real Oviedo midfielder Alvaro Reina. The 28-year-old previously played under manager Alessio Lisci for two years at Mirandes, where he was a key performer. He will enter the final year of his contract this summer.

Real Oviedo Midfielder Expresses Desire to Stay

Real Oviedo midfielder Santiago Colombatto has expressed his strong desire to stay with the club next season, even if they face relegation. Currently on loan from Club Leon, the Argentine told MD, "It’s not the time to talk about the future because the club is going through a difficult period. I’ve always said I want to stay here. Many times it’s not up to me, as we’ve seen these last few years. I’m on loan from Grupo Pachuca and it’s not up to me, so we’ll have to wait and see. My intention is to stay in Oviedo no matter what; my family is happy here and so am I, but now is the time to raise my level and then we’ll see." In contrast, star goalkeeper Aaron Escandell has been less definitive about his future, stating, "All I can think about is the day-to-day here. I want to keep enjoying this difficult situation, because nobody likes being down there. I don’t know what the future holds; I have a contract with Real Oviedo. I’m happy here, and I don’t think it’s the right time. My focus is on achieving our goal of staying in the First Division."

Valencia Finalizes Signing of Malian International Aliou Dieng

Marca reports that Malian international Aliou Dieng will sign a three-year contract with Valencia, joining on a free transfer from Al-Ahly this summer after a pre-contract agreement. This acquisition reportedly does not prevent Valencia from also retaining Guido Rodriguez. Furthermore, ONtime Sports (via MD) suggests that Valencia, known as Los Che, are also tracking Egyptian goalkeeper Oufa Shobeir, a current teammate of Dieng at Al-Ahly. This comes as Julen Agirrezabala is expected to return to Athletic Club after his loan, and Stole Dimitrievski's contract expires. On another note, right-back Thierry Rendall might be on his way out. MD indicates that PSV Eindhoven could be interested in a free transfer for Rendall if Sergino Dest departs. While Valencia GM Ron Gourlay has confirmed renewal discussions, these talks have not yet progressed.