Málaga enters a new phase of the transfer market
With key needs covered, Málaga must now offload players to complete a squad that still requires a defensive midfielder.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: Leo Hidalgo (@yompyHERE)
Following an intense start to the transfer window, Málaga CF is entering a new phase of its market activity. The club has already addressed its most pressing needs with the arrivals of Fernando Calero, Juan Cruz, and José Salinas, alongside the return of Carlos Dotor from his loan. Now, sporting director Loren Juarros and coach Juanfran Funes are shifting their focus toward optimizing the squad size.
The primary challenge is to create room in the professional roster. Currently, the team holds 26 professional registrations, one over the allowed limit. To secure new signings—specifically the defensive midfielder identified as the top priority—the club must part ways with at least two players. Athletes such as Moussa Diarra, Juanpe, Haitam, and Julen Lobete are among those whose situations are currently being evaluated.
The search for a defensive-minded midfielder to provide balance and depth alongside Izan Merino remains the roadmap for the club. While Yvan Neyou of Leganés is one of the names under consideration, the sporting management is keeping other alternatives open. The coaching staff will continue to use the pre-season period to assess individual performances before finalizing any further adjustments ahead of the season opener against Atlético Madrid.