The recent departure of Sergio Barcia, which follows that of Mika Mármol, has created an urgency at UD Las Palmas to bring in a new central defender. Both players were part of the starting defensive line last season, and their exit leaves a significant gap in the team's rearguard.
Mármol's exit, as his contract ended, was a foreseen and accepted situation by the club, with several teams interested in his signing. However, Barcia's non-continuity has come as an unexpected setback. There was a plan to exercise the purchase option agreed upon with his parent club, Legia Warsaw, for 1.5 million euros, with the intention of keeping him on the payroll or making a subsequent transfer.
This failed operation leaves coach De la Barrera with limited options in the center of defense. Currently, he has Andrés Rodríguez, a future prospect without top-flight experience, Álex Suárez, and Juanma Herzog as confirmed center-backs. The promotion of Carlos Navarro from the reserve team adds another alternative, although his place in the first team is not guaranteed. Clemente's versatility as a left-back could also be an option, but his good performance in that role makes it preferable to keep him there.
Given this situation, the signing of a specific player for the center-back position has become inevitable and is considered a priority for the sporting management, led by Luis Helguera. They are looking for a profile that brings experience and complements the characteristics of the defenders already in the squad.
Although options are being considered, the club insists on acting with patience, as the summer transfer market is long. They are confident that Álex Suárez and Herzog offer sufficient guarantees, pending the addition of greater competition. Coach De la Barrera aims to ensure a squad with doubled positions to face the challenges of the upcoming season, especially with the goal of promotion.
