La Liga
Patrick Mercado emerges strongly in Sevilla FC's plans for the winter market, at a time when Matías Almeyda needs immediate reinforcements to sustain a project that is still seeking stability. The sports management, led by Antonio Cordón, has reactivated their focus in South America in search of low-cost solutions due to the club's limitations in La Liga.
MundoDeportivo reports that Almeyda has insisted on the need to incorporate a midfielder capable of breaking lines, maintaining defensive balance, and providing freshness in a decisive stretch of the season. In this scenario, Patrick Mercado emerges as a versatile piece from Independiente del Valle, one of the most interesting breakthroughs in Ecuadorian football.
The Argentine coach fears a shortage of personnel in January, especially with the imminent departure of Akor Adams to the Africa Cup, which will leave the attack line understaffed. However, the midfield is also a concern, particularly with Joan Jordán and Gudelj likely to leave.
Patrick Mercado, the profile sought by Almeyda
At only 22 years old, Patrick Mercado already has international experience with Ecuador and stands out for his tactical acumen. He can play as a classic pivot or move a few meters forward to link up with the forward line, a trait highly valued by Almeyda.
Internal sources from Sevilla FC affirm that Cordón closely monitors his progress, aware of the player's exponential growth within the well-structured setup of Independiente del Valle. The footballer has had an impressive year in local tournaments and international competitions.
His ability to regain possession without committing fouls, precision in distribution, and physical presence enabling extensive coverage of the pitch make him an ideal candidate to enhance competition in a squad in need of a boost. The sports management sees him as an affordable investment, in line with the club's economic reality.
Alternatives in South America and the winter plan
The name of Patrick Mercado joins a list that includes the Argentinians Perruzzi and Gulli, both monitored by Cordón during his recent trip to Buenos Aires. All three fit the same profile: young, with room for growth, and economically accessible.
The Sevilla FC believes that the January window will be crucial to rectify planning mistakes and provide Almeyda with a more competitive squad. The club needs internal dynamism, attacking efficiency, and better connectivity between lines.
Meanwhile, the competition in La Liga demands quick reactions to avoid classification issues in the second half of the season. The team has shown character, but also structural deficiencies affecting its performance.

Mercado within the Ecuadorian football environment
Ecuador emphasizes that the midfielder is having his most solid season. In Independiente del Valle, he has thrived under a style that demands intensity, coordinated pressure, and quick circulation, all pillars aligning with Almeyda's plan.
Moreover, his maturity in taking on early responsibilities makes him an attractive choice for a club aiming to rejuvenate its midfield core without sacrificing competitiveness. Reports from Sevilla's scouts reflect this sentiment.
A move that could expedite the market
The priority for Sevilla FC is to find a balance between sporting needs and economic viability, where Patrick Mercado fits perfectly. The club aims to secure at least two reinforcements before the end of the window.
It is not a simple operation, but the longstanding relationship between Cordón and Ecuadorian football works in favor. Sevilla understands that investing in emerging talent can make a difference in the tail end of the season.
The name of Patrick Mercado will resound in the coming weeks, as the midfielder stands as one of the most solid options to reinforce a key area, fitting exceptionally well into the project Almeyda aims to solidify.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El mediocentro que el Sevilla quiere fichar en enero
