Cruz Azul’s transfer window nightmare
The Liga MX giants have failed to secure any major reinforcements for the 2025 Apertura, and almost lost a key defender.
Cruz Azul, the reigning CONCACAF club champions, have come close to winning the Liga MX title in recent seasons—but they’ve fallen just short of that final play that could bring joy to their executives, players, and especially their passionate fanbase.
Known for fielding highly competitive squads, the team currently boasts a strong roster. However, they’re still on the hunt for two key players who could elevate their level and make them a truly solid contender.
Under the leadership of Nicolás Larcamón, Cruz Azul kicked off the current transfer window in determined fashion, signing Jeremy Márquez and Argentine midfielder José Paradela.
No go for Jovic
However, the club was aiming even higher—they wanted a world-class striker with lethal finishing and international pedigree. For a moment, it looked like they had found their man: Serbian forward Luka Jovic, formerly of Real Madrid.
Despite advanced negotiations, Jovic ultimately signed with AEK Athens in Greece, leaving Cruz Azul without the marquee signing they had hoped for. The Serbian striker, who recently wrapped up his stint with AC Milan, chose to stay in Europe, reportedly influenced by family preferences and the opportunity to play in continental competitions like the Europa League.
The team had already parted ways with Giorgos Giakoumakis and considered releasing Gabriel “Toro” Fernández, who ended up staying with the squad. Both players have struggled with recurring injuries, making the need for a reliable striker even more urgent
Close to losing Piovi
Cruz Azul nearly lost one of its defensive anchors: Gonzalo Piovi. Inter Miami, known for building a star-studded squad around Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, made a move to sign the Argentine defender. However, the deal fell through due to financial disagreements—Cruz Azul demanded $7 million in a single payment, while the MLS club offered $6 million spread over four years.
With the MLS transfer window closing soon, Piovi will remain at Cruz Azul for now. His presence is vital to Larcamón’s system, where he’s a key starter alongside Erik Lira and Willer Ditta in the back line.
Another name circulating around Cruz Azul’s headquarters is Giorgian De Arrascaeta, the talented Uruguayan playmaker who’s been a standout in Brazil for several seasons. While he fits perfectly into the club’s sporting vision, no agreement has been reached. His market value and career trajectory have made negotiations difficult.
New arrivals at Cruz Azul
While Cruz Azul has remained cautious in recent transfer windows, avoiding last-minute “panic buys,” their Liga MX rivals have gone all-in on marquee signings. Pumas brought in seasoned internationals Aaron Ramsey and Keylor Navas, Tigres landed World Cup winner Ángel Correa, and Club América added French winger Allan Saint-Maximin to their roster. In contrast, Cruz Azul has yet to secure a world-class name to bolster their attack.
The club’s third signing this window is Jorge Rodarte, a promising 21-year-old defender from Mineros de Zacatecas. He arrives on a one-year loan with a purchase option for 70% of his rights. While he’s seen as a long-term investment, it’s unlikely he’ll feature prominently in the starting lineup this season.
Despite missing out on high-profile names, Cruz Azul is banking on internal stability and youth development to stay competitive. Whether that’s enough to challenge the star-studded squads of their rivals remains to be seen.
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