Javier Aguirre targets winter reinforcements for Valencia
Valencia CF is actively preparing three potential player acquisitions for the January 2027 transfer window at the request of manager Javier Aguirre, according to reports. The sporting direction, led by Braulio Vázquez, is evaluating operations for Largie Ramazani, Anthony Martial, and Edson Álvarez to strengthen the attack and central midfield at Mestalla.
Negotiating the Return of Largie Ramazani from England
One of the primary targets for Valencia is 25-year-old Belgian winger Largie Ramazani, who belongs to Leeds United and is currently on loan at Burnley. Ramazani already knows Mestalla well after spending the 2025/2026 campaign with the club, during which he scored six goals in 31 official appearances. However, any January move requires complex negotiations with both English clubs. The loan agreement between Leeds and Burnley includes a purchase obligation tied to appearances, complicating an early termination. Leeds currently values the player at approximately 8 million euros, while Valencia aims to negotiate a deal closer to 5 million euros.
Evaluating Anthony Martial as a Free Agent Option
The club is also considering 30-year-old French forward Anthony Martial, who has been without a team since leaving Monterrey. As a free agent, Martial would not require a transfer fee, though his wage demands present a significant hurdle for Valencia’s budget. The interest follows ongoing offensive struggles and physical setbacks for Umar Sadiq, leaving Aguirre with limited options alongside Hugo Duro. Martial previously played in LaLiga during a loan spell with Sevilla in the 2021/2022 season after arriving from Manchester United.
Targeting Edson Álvarez and Alternative Midfield Options
In central midfield, Aguirre has requested the acquisition of 28-year-old Mexican international Edson Álvarez from West Ham United. Álvarez has played only 75 minutes this season, creating an opening for a potential winter departure. Aguirre previously coached the player during his tenure as Mexico’s national team manager. Valencia is reportedly studying a loan formula with a purchase option not exceeding 6 million euros, though the English club has yet to accept those terms. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Aguirre has also requested the signing of Cruz Azul midfielder Erik Lira, whom the club previously pursued in April 2026, though Cruz Azul reportedly values Lira at 15 million euros.
Financial Constraints Limit January Transfer Options
With the winter transfer window approaching in January 2027, Braulio Vázquez and the sporting management face strict financial constraints to satisfy Aguirre’s squad requests. The club must resolve an active loan arrangement for Ramazani, reach a compatible wage agreement with Martial, and convince West Ham or Cruz Azul on acceptable valuation terms for their respective midfielders.
