Valencia Moves Forward with Guido Rodríguez Signing

In recent hours, Valencia CF has intensified efforts to secure the signing of Argentine midfielder Guido Rodríguez. After several days of negotiations with West Ham, the deal is now significantly advanced, influenced by the player’s desire to facilitate his departure. Initially reported by Mateo Moretto of MARCA, the negotiations had stalled due to differing expectations between the two clubs, but recent developments have revived the prospects of this transfer.

According to journalist Guillem Balagué, Valencia has successfully arranged for Rodríguez’s arrival following the termination of his contract with West Ham, which was set to expire next summer. The Argentine midfielder, who has attracted interest from clubs like Juventus and Espanyol, is expected to travel to Valencia imminently to formalize his transfer using his release letter.

Rodríguez has prioritized a move to Valencia after discussions with coach Carlos Corberán. He was already convinced of the opportunity when MARCA broke the news, as the playing time promised by Corberán is crucial for his aspirations to be selected for the upcoming World Cup with Argentina. Additionally, returning to LaLiga, a competition he is familiar with, is vital for him to showcase his abilities.

This transfer aligns with the strategic direction of coach Carlos Corberán, who has expressed the need to strengthen the midfield with an experienced player capable of supporting the team during challenging match situations. At 31 years of age, Rodríguez fits this profile well, bringing extensive experience from his four and a half seasons at Real Betis and his subsequent stint in the Premier League with West Ham, where his playing time had been inconsistent this season due to internal competition and the decisions of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo.

Valencia has been actively exploring various options to finalize this operation over the past few days. As discussions progressed, the player’s contractual situation in England became a pivotal factor: West Ham had the option to unilaterally extend his contract for an additional year, complicating a traditional loan arrangement. However, Rodríguez’s pressure to leave, potentially involving some financial compromise, has paved the way for Valencia to acquire him this season without a transfer fee, which aligns better with the club’s budget constraints.

Rodríguez will not be included in West Ham’s squad for the upcoming match against Sunderland, a notable absence indicating that his time at the English club is drawing to a close. The Argentine midfielder is no longer part of the immediate plans, and his contractual situation is nearing resolution.

The current scenario suggests a contract termination with West Ham, a necessary step before his return to LaLiga. As reported exclusively by MARCA, Guido Rodríguez’s trajectory is set towards Valencia, where the club hopes to finalize his incorporation in the coming days.