Villarreal cool on goalkeeper spend as Péter Gulácsi talks stall | OneFootball

Villarreal are exploring a move for Péter Gulácsi, but talks with RB Leipzig are on hold. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, the club want a short-term, low-cost deal within their wage limits.

The position is down to Luiz Júnior after Diego Conde joined Real Betis on loan and Arnau Tenas left for Real Mallorca until season’s end. Villarreal seek Champions League experience.

The 36-year-old Hungary international is contracted to Leipzig until June 2027 after 11 seasons and more than 360 games. He wants two years in Vila-real, the club only offer one.

Salary is another obstacle. Gulácsi does not intend to forgo the high pay due in Germany this year, and Villarreal will not cover it in full, so Leipzig would need to fund a significant share.

Leipzig also want a fee to offset that contribution. Villarreal do not plan to pay for a 36-year-old likely to sign for one season, preferring a loan, a free transfer or a near zero-cost deal.

There is no urgency at La Cerámica. Luiz Júnior is backed as first choice for La Liga, Copa del Rey and the Champions League, with any signing expected to compete and add experience, not automatically displace him.

Late-window opportunities are anticipated as clubs trim squads or subsidise wages. Gulácsi remains the leading option, but Villarreal will proceed only if a proposal fits their sporting and financial parameters.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo