Valladolid snap up Michelin on loan from table-toppers Racing Santander
Real Valladolid complete their winter transfer business by securing Racing Santander's out-of-favour right-back Clément Michelin on loan with an option to buy.
Valladolid have sealed their sixth and final winter signing by securing Racing Santander’s French right-back Clément Michelin on a loan deal until the end of the season, with an option to buy.
From league leaders to mid-table scramble
The 28-year-old defender has struggled for minutes at Racing this season despite the Cantabrian side’s stunning form at the top of LALIGA Hypermotion. Michelin has managed just over 400 minutes across all competitions, making only three starts before November when he began disappearing from matchday squads altogether.
It’s quite the contrast to last season when the Frenchman was a crucial cog in Racing’s machine, racking up nearly 2,500 minutes across 35 appearances while contributing two goals and two assists.
Valladolid’s winter shopping spree
Michelin’s arrival caps off a busy January for Valladolid, who’ve been wheeling and dealing like Del Boy at the market. Their winter acquisitions now include:
- Forwards Erlien and Ohio
- Winger Sanseviero
- Centre-back Ramón Martínez
- Full-backs Clerc and Michelin
The right-back position has been a proper headache for Valladolid, with winger Iván Alejo forced to fill in as an emergency option. With Alejo now serving a three-match suspension, Michelin’s arrival couldn’t be more timely.
One in, one out
Valladolid had already shipped out right-back Trilli to Córdoba earlier in the window due to his lack of playing time. The Galician wasn’t the only one heading for the exit door, with Xavi Moreno, Javi Sánchez, Jorge Delgado, Arnu and Koke all departing the club during January.
Michelin brings plenty of experience to Valladolid, having previously turned out for AEK Athens, Girondins, Lens and Toulouse before joining Racing Santander on a free transfer.