Racing Santander have ruled out a move for Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala. Sporting director Chema Aragón confirmed on Thursday that the deal is unworkable under the conditions set by the Basque club, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Aragón admitted that the 25-year-old shot-stopper was the Cantabrian side's primary target to strengthen the goalkeeping position. "It is true that Julen was our first option. The player knows it, his agent knows it, and Athletic themselves know it," the executive told reporters. However, an agreement could not be reached, forcing Racing to explore other options in the transfer market.
Why did the transfer collapse?
The main stumbling block was Athletic Bilbao's demands. Aragón explained that the structure of the deal, involving financial and contractual terms, did not align with Racing's possibilities. "It is an operation that I believe is unworkable under the conditions Athletic proposed," he stated. The Basque club retains the goalkeeper in their squad, although he has not been called up for pre-season friendlies under manager Edin Terzic.
This situation leaves Racing with a clear need between the posts. The team, currently sitting 12th in the La Liga standings, is seeking a goalkeeper who can provide stability. The current squad, detailed on our team page, has options, but the sporting direction is looking for a reliable reinforcement.
Who is the priority target now?
With the door closed on Agirrezabala, the focus shifts to other names. Aragón made a revealing comparison when pointing to the type of player they would truly want. "The only player we would all really like to have here wore number 28 the other day in Laredo and played for the opposing team," he said, clearly referring to attacking midfielder Peio Canales. This statement underscores the search for a player with game-changing ability.
Racing aims to replace the differential talent provided by Canales, who was a key piece last season. The first-team squad, according to our data, has an average age of 26 and several players with contracts expiring in 2027. Finding a creative profile with an attacking threat is a priority for the manager, alongside strengthening in goal.
How does this affect planning?
The transfer window deadline is approaching and Racing must act quickly. The club operates on a tight budget and needs to be selective. The need for a goalkeeper remains urgent, especially with the official competition starting next week.
The team is facing a decisive phase of pre-season. The upcoming fixtures, listed on our match calendar, include a friendly against Real Oviedo on September 10th. The board hopes to resolve the reinforcement chapter before that match so the coach can work with his definitive squad.
Racing Santander's current squad for the 2026/27 season includes players like the under-21 international forward, who scored 12 goals last campaign, and the captain, a centre-back with over 150 appearances for the club. The team will play its next official match at El Sardinero on September 17th, according to the La Liga schedule.
