Gourlay sets out Valencia’s early summer moves and director search | OneFootball

Valencia chief executive of football Ron Gourlay set out next steps after the January window, urging patience with a four-window rebuild before the Nou Mestalla’s planned 2027 opening. His update followed a Copa del Rey exit and a one-point cushion above the relegation zone.

According to Superdeporte, he highlighted the arrivals of Umar Sadiq, Guido Rodríguez and Unai Núñez, and the need to spot talent early. He cited the free capture of Justin de Haas and said another deal is close, referencing Mali midfielder Aliou Dieng.

Top priority is appointing a sporting director or technical secretary with knowledge of the Spanish market within two months. The role would sit between Gourlay and Carlos Corberán to ease the coach’s recruitment burden amid a fight involving 12-14 teams to stay up.

Talks will now open with Rodríguez and his agents over extending beyond 30 June. Gourlay said the short contract reflected January time pressure and competition, and that the club will aim for a positive agreement within a couple of months.

Reviews are under way for expiring deals, including Stole Dimitrievski, who has a paid two-year extension clause, and Thierry Rendall, with discussions already started. The search for a right-back is active, and Álvaro Núñez has joined Celta after being available on a free.

Gourlay said he would handle any decision on Corberán’s future if it arose. He does not feel obliged to sell in the summer, noting about 10 million euros invested and belief the January additions, and de Haas, improve the squad. He added that the club plan for all eventualities but are not dwelling on relegation.

Source: Superdeporte