Racing sound out León defender William Tesillo

Strengthening the back line is a priority for Argentine club Racing Club Avellaneda who are evaluating the possibility of placing an offer for Club León centre-back William Tesillo. According to sources close to the club, no formal offers have been received for the 33-year-old Colombian defender nor has the negotiation phase begun. Tesillo however is one of the main candidates to strengthen the team ahead of the new campaign which kicks off at the end of the month. The Argentineans are also reported to be considering Rover Plate pair Emanuel Mammana and Robert Rojas - the latter, currently on loan at CA Tigre.

Former boss

Racing’s newly appointed technical director Gustavo Costas has personally requested the veteran central defender as a reinforcement - he is a player who he knows well, having coached him during his time in charge at Independiente Santa Fe during the 2015/16 season.

With a contract in force until May 2024, Tesillo participated in a total of 15 games during the Apertura 2023, finishing with one assist in 1,412 minutes on-field. He joined Leon from Independiente for $1.7 million in July 2018.

Final tweaks

Under the direction of Uruguayan coach Jorge Bava, León are in the process of revamping the squad for the Clausura 2024. The coach stated that, despite having a competitive and talented roster, there areas that need attention. “We have good players, it’s just a matter of looking for the last pieces we’re missing,” he explained.

León finished eighth in the 2023 Apertura standings, one of three clubs on 23 points. After beating Atlético San Luis in the Play In, they met América in the quarter finals, only to be eliminated 4-2 on aggregate. The team’s Club World Cup campaign was also shortlived - they were eliminated in the second round by Urawa Reds.