Valencia’s search for a holding midfielder puts Guido Rodríguez at top of list | OneFootball

Valencia have again entered the market without a specialist defensive pivot, a recurring problem since David Albelda retired. According to Superdeporte, fixing the role is the club’s prime focus this summer, despite standout spells from Javi Fuego, Francis Coquelin and Geoffrey Kondogbia.

Recent flashes from Hugo Guillamón, Pepelu, Enzo Barrenechea and Guido Rodríguez have not changed the bigger picture. The six remains a priority in squad building, and Valencia cannot afford another miss after failing with the signing of Baptiste Santamaria.

In this context, Guido is viewed as option number one, though any move is complicated by the financial terms around the player, whose switch to the Premier League raised his salary ceiling. Carlos Corberán wants the Argentine, believing his tactical nous and willingness to take the ball in build-up delivered a second half lift.

Even so, Guido has several suitors and wants a strong commitment from Valencia, along with an ambitious plan after a season spent fighting relegation. Dialogue is ongoing, and his absence from the World Cup could speed a decision on his future.

If Guido does not arrive, Valencia will still need to commit significant resources to the six. Failing to reinforce properly after Barrenechea’s departure was a major factor behind record negative numbers in the first half, which put their LaLiga survival at risk.

Source: Superdeporte