Osasuna Strengthens Squad with Javi Galán and Eyeing Future Signings

Braulio Vázquez, the sporting director of Osasuna, made a significant move in the transfer market on Christmas Eve by acquiring Javi Galán to enhance the team’s left flank. Galán, whose contract with Atlético Madrid expires at the end of the current season, has joined Osasuna ahead of other interested clubs both in Spain and internationally.

The deal involves a payment of €500,000 to Atlético, securing Galán’s services until the season concludes. Following this period, Galán will have the option to either extend his contract with Osasuna, with terms already outlined, or consider lucrative offers from clubs in the Arab leagues. Should Osasuna remain in La Liga and Galán stay with the team, Atlético Madrid stands to receive double the initial transfer fee.

With Galán’s transfer finalized, Vázquez is now focusing on similar opportunities. “We are evaluating potential operations for next year, but if we wait until later, we might miss out. If we can make a move now, even if it doesn’t directly address our current needs, we will proceed because it strengthens our long-term project,” Vázquez explained, refraining from naming specific targets.

He hinted at a potential signing, stating, “We have a better chance of securing it now than during the summer market, as other contenders may not be able to participate. Osasuna has more flexibility at this moment because we are not constrained by salary limits like some of our competitors, who are focused on balancing their budgets for any winter additions.”

“Perhaps I’ve provided too many clues,” Vázquez admitted. All indications point toward Mika Mármol, a 24-year-old left-footed center-back from Las Palmas, who is set to be out of contract with the club this summer. He is on the radar of several top-tier teams, including Girona and Espanyol, and Osasuna aims to act swiftly to secure him.

However, there are two significant hurdles in acquiring Mármol from Las Palmas at this juncture. Firstly, the yellow club is reluctant to part ways with one of its key players in the second half of the season. Secondly, 50% of any potential transfer fee would go to Barcelona, making the remaining amount less appealing for Las Palmas.

Mármol’s release clause stands at €10 million, but he could leave for free in six months, which diminishes his current market value. Should Osasuna wait until the summer, they understand that increased competition could complicate the deal.

Finalizing the operation now would allow Mármol to make the leap to La Liga without enduring a challenging period in Gran Canaria due to his refusal to renew with Las Palmas. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona remains vigilant for any unexpected developments in the transfer market.