Lozano’s Future: Potential Moves Under Scrutiny

According to ESPN, Cruz Azul has expressed interest in acquiring Hirving Lozano but faces significant challenges due to his salary and the associated transfer fee. The club currently lacks a winger with Lozano’s capabilities, and his skill set would integrate seamlessly into Nicolás Larcamón’s attack-focused system. However, Lozano’s annual salary of $7.6 million, inclusive of bonuses, exceeds Cruz Azul’s wage structure, necessitating a substantial pay cut for him to facilitate a move.

In a related development, former Mexico national team manager Gerardo Martino has returned to Atlanta United following a disappointing season that left the club languishing near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. With Martino back at the helm, the organization aims to revitalize its project. Reports suggest that Lozano’s speed and explosiveness on the wings have captured the club’s attention, bolstered by Martino’s prior experience coaching the forward.

Tigres has also surfaced as a potential contender, having previously shown interest in acquiring Lozano. The Monterrey-based club is recognized as one of the leading spenders in Mexican soccer, positioning them as one of the few teams capable of meeting Lozano’s salary expectations.

Moreover, Lozano could be a fitting addition to Toluca, which is managed by Antonio “Turco” Mohamed. Although there has been no direct link yet, the club’s ambition to maintain domestic dominance while striving for continental success in CONCACAF could influence their future interest in the 30-year-old winger.

However, several avenues in Mexico appear to be closing for Lozano. Chivas head coach Gabriel Milito, Monterrey sporting director José Antonio Noriega, and Pachuca manager Guillermo Almada have all denied any intentions to pursue him for the upcoming tournament.