TRANSFER MARKET
Mexico international Orbelín Pineda leaves Celta to join AEK Athens
The Mexican player leaves the LaLiga outfit and becomes the most expensive signing in AEK’s history.
Celta and AEK Athens have announced the transfer of Orbelín Pineda to the Greek club, where he played on loan last season with great success. The Mexico international won the league and cup double and was named MVP of the Greek top flight. His great season has made him the most expensive signing in AEK’s history. None of the parties have wanted to give official figures, but media outlets in Greece claim that the fee was $7m.
Leaves Celta for Greece
Orbelín arrived in Vigo a year and a half ago as a free agent, but he never managed to fit into Eduardo Coudet’s plans; he only played 93 minutes in seven league games. The 27-year-old eventually left Balaídos last summer to move to Greece, where he scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 42 games.
There was interest from other top clubs in Greece, but his intention was always to stay at AEK. Negotiations between the clubs had been going on for weeks, but Vigo wanted to wait until the appointment of Rafa Benítez was completed before activating the move. Pineda has committed himself to AEK until June 2027. The income from the transfer will now be used by Celta to make new signings.
Fernández on the way out
In the statement issued by Celta, his former club wished him every success and expressed its gratitude for his behaviour, professionalism and dedication during his time at the Vigo club. The next departure that will take place at the LaLiga club will be that of striker “Toro” Fernández.