Sevilla confirm preliminary agreement for Mercado, summer arrival after World Cup | OneFootball

Sevilla have confirmed a preliminary agreement with Independiente del Valle for Patrik Mercado, the club said in a statement, with the move to be completed in the summer window.

The deal follows months of pursuit of the Ecuadorian, targeted by Antonio Cordón for his youth, dribbling and final pass. Sevilla were determined to move ahead of rivals.

Talks began quietly with Independiente del Valle, where he is under contract until 2027. A January push stalled due to salary cap limits. Premier League interest, notably Chelsea, sharpened the race and forced Sevilla to act quickly.

Throughout, the player’s camp stayed calm and he prioritised a jump to LaLiga. Only minor details were left as Sevilla stuck to a plan they had set for weeks. Inside the club he is viewed as a long-term, cornerstone addition.

Mercado will join after the next World Cup. He has three senior caps for Ecuador and is sure to be at the tournament, where Germany, Curaçao and Ivory Coast await in the group stage.

He was recently named Ecuador’s 2025 player of the season and best attacking midfielder at the EL PRO 2025 awards. In 24/25 he recorded seven goals and 11 assists.

Source: La Colina De Nervion