The Depor negotiates its first signing from the top league

Julen Agirrezabala has become one of the key names in the Athletic de Bilbao market. The 25-year-old goalkeeper returned after his loan spell at Valencia CF, and everything indicates that he will leave again this summer.

The Basque club is well covered in goal with Unai Simón and Álex Padilla, so the homegrown player doesn't have real chances of regular playing time. In this scenario, Deportivo de la Coruña emerges as one of the most attentive clubs.

Julen Aguirrezabala enters Deportivo de la Coruña's plans

Deportivo de la Coruña has returned to La Liga and aims not only to survive but to compete. The Galician club is working on strengthening several key positions, and the goalkeeper position is a priority to face the jump to LaLiga with assurance.

The option of Julen Aguirrezabala is appealing due to his experience, age, and potential for growth. Although his time at Valencia didn't fully dispel all doubts, the goalkeeper already knows the demands of the elite and has shown character in significant moments.

The issue lies in the deal structure. Athletic de Bilbao is currently not considering a simple loan and prefers a permanent transfer. This complicates Deportivo's plans, needing to align each move with their budget after promotion.

Athletic de Bilbao seeks a sale with future control

Athletic de Bilbao aims to capitalize on the moment to obtain an appealing amount for Julen Agirrezabala. His contract expires on June 30, 2027, making this window crucial to avoid his value decreasing.

Nevertheless, the red-and-white entity doesn't want to entirely lose control over the goalkeeper. The idea would involve including a buy-back option and retaining a percentage of a future sale, a common practice for homegrown players.

This structure may bring parties closer, but it doesn't eliminate the financial challenge. Deportivo needs a reliable goalkeeper but must also assess if they can afford a transfer for a player coming from a patchy season marked by a significant muscle injury.

Diego Conde emerges as a cheaper alternative

The name of Diego Conde, Villarreal CF's goalkeeper, is also under consideration. His departure seems more straightforward and much more cost-effective, as the Yellow Submarine has Luiz Junior and Arnau Tenas ahead in the rotation.

For Deportivo, this alternative makes sense if the deal for Julen Agirrezabala becomes unfeasible. Conde could arrive for a lower fee and help bolster the goalkeeping position without compromising as much flexibility in a summer that demands several signings.

Nevertheless, the profile of the Basque goalkeeper remains attractive. He has potential, experience at the highest level, and is still at an optimal age to revitalize his career. In a recently promoted team, he might find the playing time he won't have at San Mamés.

Julen Aguirrezabala, a decision shaped by the project

The future of Julen Aguirrezabala will hinge on the sports proposal and the formula accepted by the clubs. The player requires continuity, Athletic aims to profit, and Deportivo seeks a goalkeeper capable of competing from day one.

The deal isn't finalized but is well positioned in the market's sights. If Deportivo de la Coruña can meet the conditions set by the Basque club, Julen Aguirrezabala could become a significant bet for their return to LaLiga.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Depor negocia su primer fichaje de primera