Valencia open door to Gayà renewal as right-back search takes priority | OneFootball

Valencia have begun talks to extend captain Gayà’s contract, which currently runs until 30 June 2027. According to Superdeporte, the renewal is now embedded in the club’s sporting and financial planning.

The club regard him as influential both in the dressing room and on the pitch after a career dedicated to Valencia. Both parties are working on terms ahead of his 15th season, aiming to avoid the final months of 2026/27 without clarity. At 31, he hopes to retire at the club as a one club man.

Summer planning is led by CEO of Football Ron Gourlay, and the immediate priority is to recruit two right-backs. One needs to be capable of starting LaLiga as first choice and providing full reliability.

A move for Thomas Meunier was close, but the Belgian changed his mind late on, forcing Valencia to restart their search. Initial calls went to Andrés García, now at Getafe on loan from Aston Villa, but Valencia arrived too late after weeks focused on Meunier.

One option under consideration is UD Almería’s Daijiro Chirino. Club sources say no offer has been made for the 24-year-old from Curazao, who shares roots with head of scouting Lisandro Isei. He is admired and among several alternatives being weighed up before a push in the coming hours or days.

The plan is to add a dependable right-back to cover a priority position. Despite the urgency after the Meunier setback, Valencia want to avoid rushing a decision that will shape the rest of their window. They are scouring the market to table an offer for the ideal candidate.

Source: Superdeporte