Boca step up Villa chase as transfer window nears end | OneFootball

Boca Juniors has decided to take advantage of the last available spot in the transfer market and is focusing all its efforts on Sebastián Villa. After Lucas Blondel’s departure to Huracán —on loan until December with a purchase option—, the club from La Ribera has until March 10 to make a signing, and the Independiente Rivadavia winger is the main target to strengthen the attack ahead of the Copa Libertadores and the Torneo Apertura.

Juan Román Riquelme is personally leading the negotiations for the player, whose price tag has reportedly dropped drastically from the 12 million dollars sought in January to a figure close to six million.

Between the desire to leave and Mendoza’s refusal

Despite Boca’s strong interest, the president of “La Lepra,” Daniel Vila, dismissed the existence of formal contacts: “I think it’s just a social media rumor. Today he is an Independiente player and will stay until mid-year,” he stated, although he did acknowledge the existence of a verbal agreement to facilitate his departure if a beneficial offer comes in. For his part, the player was cautious after the recent 1-1 draw against River: “I’m focused here. My agent handles everything else.”

A return marked by controversy and lawsuits

Villa’s possible return is not without controversy. The Colombian left Boca in 2023 after being convicted of gender-based violence, which started a legal battle that is still ongoing: the player is claiming two million dollars for constructive dismissal, while the club has a counterclaim before FIFA and the courts for 20 million.

Additionally, his relationship with the fans became strained after the attacker stated a few months ago that, if Marcelo Gallardo called, he would not hesitate to sign with River to seek “the best for his family.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.