Puerta stays put at Racing as Michelin heads for Valladolid exit
Racing Santander confirm Colombian midfielder Gustavo Puerta will remain until season's end, while French full-back Michelin negotiates Valladolid move before transfer deadline.
What was shaping up to be a quiet end to the January window for Racing Santander has suddenly kicked into life with transfer activity bubbling away in Cantabria.
Puerta staying put
The best news for Racing gaffer José Alberto is that Colombian midfielder Gustavo Puerta won’t be doing a runner before the window slams shut. The club made it crystal clear on social media that Puerta “se queda” despite Lazio’s recent advances.
Puerta’s been proper mustard this season, establishing himself as one of Racing’s standout performers and a genuine revelation in the Segunda División. Both player and club were having none of the Italian interest, showing admirable resolve to keep the squad intact for their promotion push.
Michelin rolling out
While Puerta stays, French full-back Michelin is definitely on his bike. The defender is deep in negotiations with Real Valladolid, with the deal expected to be wrapped up before Monday’s deadline. It’s already at the business end of proceedings, with José Alberto leaving him out of the squad for Sunday’s clash with Granada.
Michelin had a blinder last season but has found himself warming the bench this term due to a combination of injuries and Mantilla’s impressive form at right-back. The departure raises questions about whether Sporting Director Chema Aragón will dip into the market for a replacement.
Currently, Racing would have Mantilla and Sangalli as options in that position. Barcelona B’s Xavi Espart has been mentioned in dispatches, but nothing concrete has materialised yet.
January business
Racing’s winter window has already seen four new faces through the door:
- Manex Lozano
- Guliashvili
- Damian Rodríguez
- Eriksson
Meanwhile, Jeremy, Yeray Cabanzón and Andreev have all been given the old heave-ho from the Cantabrian outfit.
With the deadline day approaching faster than a Puerta slide tackle, Racing fans will be keeping their mince pies peeled for any last-minute surprises in the transfer market.