Renzo Saravia contract demands do not fit Valencia’s plans but talks remain open | OneFootball

Valencia have explored the free-agent market for right-backs after Foulquier’s injury and Thierry’s discomfort, with talks held for Renzo Saravia. Carlos Corberán acknowledged this route on Saturday.

Saravia left Atlético Mineiro on one January, expecting proposals from MLS and, above all, from Qatar. He has yet to decide his next move by mid-February, at which point Valencia entered the picture. According to AS, Valencia’s interest is permitted by FIFA’s long-term injury provisions and LaLiga’s Article 107 salary-cap margin.

The sticking point is his contract demands. Valencia want short-term cover until 30 June, likely as a back-up. Thierry’s issue is an oedema and he could even make Sunday’s trip to La Cerámica, while Unai Núñez has filled in well against Real Madrid and Levante.

With Qatari money on the table, Saravia is asking for a longer deal, at least one and a half years and preferably two and a half. The club have left the door ajar while the player decides whether to sample Europe again, even for four months, or depart for Qatar. His previous European spell at Porto brought six appearances, and he has nine Argentina caps, the last in 2019.

Among out-of-contract right-backs, Saravia is viewed as the most reliable option for short-term cover. By regulation, Mestalla officials have 20 working days from Thursday’s operation to submit proof of Foulquier’s long lay-off, similar to Diakhaby’s case, and to register a replacement.

Source: AS