Independiente on the hunt for a striker, Michael Santos on their radar | OneFootball

Independiente remains active in the transfer market and, just hours before the deadline, has set its sights on Michael Santos. The Uruguayan forward from Vélez is one of the options Gustavo Quinteros is considering to strengthen the attack and add an alternative to Gabriel Ávalos, who was a starter in the 1-1 draw against Estudiantes in the Torneo Apertura.

The search for a forward is due to the need to fill the spot left by Santiago Montiel and the coach's intention to have more options in the position. According to sources, Santos is to Quinteros' liking, although his contractual situation complicates the operation.

The 32-year-old forward is under contract with Vélez until the end of 2027 and receives a high salary, factors that currently pose the main obstacle for a potential move to Avellaneda. In the last season, Santos played 25 matches with the Fortín, totaling 925 minutes and scoring just one goal. Overall, he has played 43 matches, scored four goals, and provided two assists wearing the Vélez jersey. Meanwhile, Venezuelan Jhonder Cádiz was offered to Independiente. However, the negotiation seems distant, as Pachuca recently suffered an injury to Enner Valencia and has few offensive alternatives, reducing the chances of parting with the forward.

The coaching staff's interest in another center forward is also explained by Quinteros' tactical considerations: Ignacio Pussetto, Matías Abaldo, Walter Mazzantti, Diego Tarzia, and Montiel himself are seen as wingers.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.