Alavés bolster backline with Finnish international Koski
Deportivo Alavés secure their second January signing as Ville Koski joins on loan from NK Istra to strengthen Coudet's defensive options ahead of crucial fixtures.
Finnish international defender Ville Koski has completed his loan move to Deportivo Alavés, becoming the club’s second winter transfer window acquisition as they look to shore up their defensive options.
Finnish reinforcement arrives
The Vitoria-based club have moved quickly to strengthen their centre-back position, an area where manager Eduardo Coudet has been short of specialists. Koski joins from Croatian outfit NK Istra, a club with whom Alavés have established a working relationship over recent times.
Standing at 1.85m (6ft 1in), Koski brings physical presence and aerial dominance to the Babazorros’ backline. The sporting directors at Alavés are well familiar with the Finn’s capabilities, having tracked his development before making their move.
Defensive reshuffle on the cards
Despite Facundo Garcés recently returning to action following a temporary reprieve from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Alavés pushed ahead with Koski’s acquisition to provide additional depth in defence.
The new arrival gives Coudet three specialist centre-backs at his disposal, potentially allowing Nahuel Tenaglia to return to his natural right-back position rather than filling in centrally – a proper Bobby Dazzler of a tactical switch that could benefit the team’s balance.
International pedigree
Koski’s CV is impressive for a player joining La Liga mid-season:
- Progressed through all of Finland’s youth national teams
- Made senior international debut in 2023
- Has been a regular fixture in Finland squads since then
- Previous club experience with Honka in Finland before moving to Croatia
What’s next?
The Finnish defender will immediately join up with Coudet’s squad, though it remains to be seen whether he’ll feature in Wednesday’s Copa del Rey clash against Real Sociedad.
With the defensive reinforcement secured, sporting director Sergio Fernández can now turn his attention to bolstering Alavés’ attacking options. The club are reportedly targeting both a winger and a striker to complement current forwards Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez as they look to secure their La Liga status.