Zaragoza free up squad space as Paulino makes way for deadline day deals

Real Zaragoza have made a last-gasp move to bolster their squad by freeing up Paulino De La Fuente’s registration until the end of the season, creating space for potential deadline day arrivals.

Injury situation creates opportunity

The club confirmed that Paulino recently underwent surgery on his left knee and is currently in rehabilitation. In a shrewd bit of business, Zaragoza have reached an agreement with the player to remove him from their official squad list while he completes his recovery process.

This clever administrative manoeuvre gives the club breathing room to bring in reinforcements before the transfer window slams shut at midnight.

Transfer targets identified

Zaragoza’s shopping list is crystal clear - they’re desperate for:

• A central defender
• A defensive midfielder

These positions have been identified as priorities despite already securing three signings this window in Rober González, Willy Agada and Nikola Cumic. The defensive spine of the team remains an area of concern that hasn’t been properly addressed yet.

Additional attacking option?

Interestingly, the club aren’t ruling out bringing in another attacking option either. Karrikaburu has emerged as a potential target, though they face competition from Deportivo who are also keen on the forward.

For Zaragoza supporters, this deadline day scramble has a familiar ring to it - another transfer window characterized by last-minute improvisation rather than careful planning. The club’s brass are certainly leaving it late to get their business done, but at least they’ve created the opportunity to strengthen before time runs out.