Villarreal news: transfer rumors, injury updates

Transfer rumors: we continue to be linked with Espanyol’s Javi Fuego. The fact that we’re considering signing a 34 year-old holding midfielder indicates something is still not right with Bruno Soriano; Rodrigo Hernandez has played virtually every minute this season in all competitions and we desperately need a backup for him. Espanyol coach Quique was pretty mum when asked about Fuego today.

Diego Reyes (Mexican international centerback currently at Porto): would be an obvious move, as he needs playing time, and he has La Liga experience at Sociedad and Espanyol. But nothing concrete about this one. Nothing about another striker either.

Being reported AS Roma has asked about or at least might be interested in Nicola Sansone.

Injury front: Good news is Roberto Soriano is recovered from in jury and training normally. He has been disappointing this season, to say the least, it would sure be good if he returns from this layoff with the quality he showed last season.

Other notes: Ex-Villarreal player Samu Garcia is returning to Malaga. Samu’s career sort of flamed out after we sold him to Rubin Kazan; they paid €5m for him but a year later let him go on a free transfer to Levante. Now he’s moving back home, joining the boquerones on a loan deal that includes a compulsory purchase price of €1.5m if Malaga are able to remain in the Primera.

Alfred N’Diaye watch: Wolverhampton Wanderers have teetered a bit lately but still lead the English Championship by 11 points. If they are promoted, they have to buy N’Diaye for €9m or else pay a penalty fee of €2.5m, as long as he makes 25 appearances (he’s currently on 18 in the league, 22 overall).