Lucas Núñez joins Eibar on loan as Aranbarri’s fourth signing | OneFootball

Eibar have confirmed the season-long loan of Valencia midfielder Núñez. The Basque club saw off interest from Córdoba, Castellón, Albacete and Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles.

It is the fourth addition to Jokin Aranbarri's squad. Sporting director César Palacios had made the midfielder a priority to deepen options in the middle.

Despite Sergio Álvarez, Olaetxea and Carrasco competing for holding roles, and Aleix Garrido, Javi Martínez and Mada offering creativity, Eibar wanted further depth. Potential departures have not been ruled out.

Núñez spent much of his youth closer to goal as a second striker, then moved deeper over time. He featured mainly as an eight for Valencia Mestalla, and lately even as a six.

Eibar describe him as versatile, with late runs into the box and clean striking off both feet. He logged 44 Segunda Federación appearances across the past two seasons and has just turned 20.

He also made 20 minutes in the cup, registering an assist against Maracena. The clubs have agreed incentives aimed at maximising his playing time.

He must now prove himself in the second tier, a far more demanding context. The move follows the David Silva blueprint, the playmaker also honed his game in Eibar before stepping up at Balaídos and Mestalla.

Source: AS