How Cruz Azul surged past Club América in the Agustín Palavecino transfer race

Agustín Palavecino is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about names in Liga MX’s winter transfer market. Cruz Azul and Club América are both interested in signing the Necaxa midfielder, but all signs point to La Máquina holding the upper hand as the Clausura 2026 tournament approaches.

While América had initially made Palavecino a priority target, the reigning giants now appear to be a step behind Cruz Azul in the chase. With just days remaining before the new season kicks off, momentum has shifted toward the Mexico City rival.

How Cruz Azul gained ground in negotiations

According to respected transfer insider César Luis Merlo, América remains in the mix, but Cruz Azul is clearly ahead in negotiations. Necaxa is reportedly asking for $8 million for Palavecino, a fee that could complicate matters for Las Águilas.

América has not typically been among the clubs willing to spend heavily on transfer fees in recent windows, which may explain why they are losing ground to Cruz Azul in this particular deal.

Direct contact from Cruz Azul’s leadership

Merlo also revealed in a recent video posted to his YouTube channel that a key figure within Cruz Azul’s front office personally reached out to Palavecino in recent hours. The message was clear. The club is serious about bringing him in and plans to push hard to complete the signing.

That direct approach could prove decisive as talks continue behind the scenes.

Cruz Azul or América? Palavecino to make final call

Merlo added that if both clubs end up submitting similar offers, the final call would come down to Palavecino himself. In that scenario, the midfielder would choose where he wants to play starting next season.

While that remains a hypothetical outcome, one thing is certain. Palavecino is firmly on the radar of two of Mexico’s biggest clubs, and his future appears set to be with either Cruz Azul or Club América once the Clausura 2026 gets underway.

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