Lionel Scaloni confirms Argentina interest in Sevilla winger Joaquin Martinez Gauna | OneFootball

Lionel Scaloni has confirmed Argentina are tracking Sevilla winger Joaquin Martinez Gauna, known as Oso, who was born in Spain to Argentine parents.

Speaking to Diario AS, Scaloni said: “We’ve watched several of Oso’s matches and he’s played very well. He’s on a list of players we’re monitoring. He’s eligible for selection.”

The 22-year-old came through Sevilla’s academy, is a left-back by trade, and was deployed on the wing by Matias Almeyda until his dismissal last week. He has made 16 appearances for Los Nervionenses, including seven league starts this season, scoring once and supplying three assists.

Earlier this month he contributed to both Sevilla goals in a 5-2 defeat to Barcelona. Two weeks earlier, his assist was crucial in earning a point against Real Betis in the Seville derby.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has yet to comment on his international future, and he has not been called up by La Roja at youth level, which is also the case for Argentina.

Sevilla are seeking to secure his club future. Oso is under contract until 2027, but without a new deal before the summer the club would face a weaker negotiating position. He is set to be a key figure in their survival push in the final weeks.

Source: Football Espana