Alavés Desperate for Centre-Back Reinforcement in January Window
With only one specialist defender available, Deportivo Alavés have made signing a new centre-back their top priority for the upcoming winter transfer window.
Alavés Desperate for Centre-Back Reinforcement in January Window
The Basque side are scouring the market for defensive options after being left with just one specialist centre-half in their squad. Despite their solid defensive record this season, the situation has become unsustainable.
Defensive Crisis
Since FIFA handed down their punishment to Facundo Garcés back in September, Alavés have been operating on a defensive knife-edge. Manager Eduardo ‘Chacho’ Coudet currently has only Rubén Pacheco as a natural centre-back in his squad – a proper ‘mare of a situation for any top-flight manager.
Remarkably, this defensive shortage hasn’t tanked their season. Alavés remain one of La Liga’s better defensive units, but sporting director Sergio Fernández isn’t taking any chances and has been actively searching for reinforcements ahead of January.
Makeshift Solutions
The team has coped through some creative problem-solving:
- Nahuel Tenaglia has performed admirably when called upon in central defence
- Protesoni has provided emergency cover when needed
But these are sticking plasters rather than proper solutions, and everyone at Mendizorroza knows it.
Broader Transfer Plans
A centre-back isn’t the only item on Alavés’ shopping list. Fernández has publicly stated the club’s intention to strengthen across the board, particularly as their form has dipped recently. After a strong start that kept them clear of the relegation zone, their recent slide has left them just three points above the drop zone.
The message is crystal clear – survival will be another dogfight this season, and reinforcements are essential.
Maras Situation
The curious case of Maras adds another layer to this defensive puzzle. The Serbian defender could have been an internal solution to their backline issues, but Coudet has remained true to his summer promise not to use him if he stayed at the club.
Despite the desperate shortage of centre-backs, the manager has refused to budge on this position. January will likely see Maras heading for the exit door, making the need for a new defensive signing even more pressing.