Aguerd Deal Falls Through
Real Sociedad’s plan to strengthen its defense is hampered by the departures of Aritz Elustondo and Caleta-Car, leaving a gap that has only been partially filled by the return of Jon Martín. The attempt to sign Moroccan centre-back Nayef Aguerd, with a €4 million agreement and an option to buy, was thwarted by medical issues after his assessment at Olympique de Marseille.
Offer for Jonathan Jesús
Head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo explained in a press conference that, after the medical assessment, the club decided it was not a good idea to sign the player: "We had conversations with Aguerd before the medical test. And after the test we spoke with the doctors and as a club we decided it was not a good idea to sign him." Since then, the sporting director has been looking for other options to reinforce the back line.
Edson Álvarez in the Picture
The first option considered is Jonathan Jesús, a 22-year-old Brazilian centre-back from Cruzeiro. According to Noticias de Gipuzkoa, the €13 million offer was rejected by the Brazilian club, but Real Sociedad is still trying to close the deal. Another target is Edson Álvarez, who could leave West Ham after its relegation. Real Sociedad plans a loan, although Olympiacos’s €8 million offer could complicate the arrival.
Season Challenges
The team, led by Pellegrino Matarazzo, lost last Friday to Real Betis in its league debut and will face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu next week. The need to strengthen the defence becomes more urgent amid the season’s challenges.
