Club América in danger of pulling a Cruz Azul
América is chasing the signature of Palmeiras’ Raphael Veiga - but Las Águilas’ pursuit of the midfielder is becoming worryingly protracted.
Raphael Veiga continues to be heavily tipped for a move to Club América, but he’s still nowhere near actually arriving. For now, the only certainty is that Palmeiras has yet to receive a concrete offer for the 30‑year‑old midfielder. Reports out of Brazil say the Verdão expects the situation to be resolved this week, but América still hasn’t been able to free up a foreign‑player slot.
América to emulate Cruz Azul fiasco?
América is going through an experience that feels very similar to what happened with Cruz Azul and Miguel Borja. La Máquina attempted to sign the Colombian striker - Borja even flew to Mexico - but could not finalize the deal. The reason? Cruz Azul took too long to open the required foreign‑player spot, and during the delay Borja grew frustrated and accepted an offer in the UAE instead.
While the situations aren’t identical - Veiga is not a free agent - América is running the risk of ending up just like Cruz Azul did. Multiple reports in Brazil indicate that Palmeiras wants the matter settled this week so they know whether or not they can count on Raphael. Even if he’s no longer an undisputed starter, the midfielder is considered one of the locker‑room leaders, and with the Brasileirão kicking off in the coming days, the clock is starting to work against América.
Journalist César Merlo notes that, as of today, América still has not submitted a formal offer for the 30-year-old. Negotiations remain active - meaning the transfer isn’t dead - but as of now nothing official has landed in Palmeiras’ offices.
What’s going on with Víctor Dávila?
The reason América hasn’t sent an offer to Palmeiras for Veiga is simple: the club still hasn’t managed to free the foreign‑player spot needed to register the Brazilian in Liga MX.
The leading candidate to leave is Víctor Dávila. The Chilean has not delivered at América and is being targeted by Colo‑Colo, now coached by Fernando Ortiz. However, his high salary in Mexico is complicating negotiations, and Dávila himself is reportedly unsure about returning to Chile, according to Merlo.
When does the Liga MX transfer window close?
Time is already working against América, as registration closes next Monday, February 9.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment