Sevilla ‘to sign’ Patrick Mercado after 2026 World Cup amid Chelsea interest | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano reports that Sevilla are set to sign 22-year-old winger Patrick Mercado from Independiente del Valle, with his arrival planned for the summer window after the 2026 World Cup. He says the paperwork is ready and an announcement is expected within 24 hours.

Talks have taken weeks with the Ecuadorian club, where Mercado is under contract until December 2027. TEAMtalk reported strong Premier League interest led by Chelsea, with Brighton, Bournemouth and Fulham also keen, prompting Sevilla to move quickly and table a competitive package.

The fee would rise to around six million euros, according to AS. Sevilla also need to free a non-EU slot and adjust their wage bill to register the player. The club have already added Juan Iglesias on a free transfer.

Mercado is expected to take the place vacated by Alexis Sánchez, who is set to return to South America. To help balance the books, leading candidates to depart include Agoumé, Vargas, Juanlu, Akor Adams, Kike Salas and Carmona.

The agreement had been down to final details, but Romano has now indicated completion. Sevilla had prioritised Mercado for months, viewing him as one of South America’s standout prospects, and have fended off Premier League competition.

Source: La Colina De Nervion