Cruz Azul Shifts focus in Striker Search After Borré Pursuit Falls Short
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Cruz Azul is actively seeking a center forward during the winter transfer window, pivoting from initial interest in Rafael Santos Borré as the club aims to bolster its attacking options.
Cruz Azul is persistent to secure a key reinforcement up front as the winter transfer period nears its conclusion. The urgency stems from the departure of Miguel Borja, who recently signed with Al-Wasl of the United Arab Emirates, leaving a significant void in the team’s attacking lineup. The sale of Mateusz Bogusz has also provided the club with financial flexibility and opened up a roster spot for a new player from Mexico.
The Search for a “Nine” Intensifies
Despite the existing presence of Gabriel Fernández, team officials recognize the need for additional firepower, particularly given a demanding schedule featuring both domestic and international competitions. “his mere presence is a very big risk in a very exhausting semester due to the tight calendar and double competition,” one source noted.
Initial attention turned to Colombian forward Rafael Santos Borré, who previously excelled with River Plate and Eintracht Frankfurt. Borré had been a target for Cruz Azul during the summer 2024 market while still playing in Germany. However, after a brief and unsuccessful stint with Werder Bremen, he returned to South America, joining Internacional de Porto Alegre.
Borré Deal Fails to Materialize
Reports indicated that Cruz Azul engaged in preliminary discussions with Internacional regarding Borré’s availability. According to Let’s go Blue journalist Gerardo González, the club inquired about the conditions required to secure the player’s services.However, these discussions were described as exploratory, and progress toward a deal stalled. César Luis Merlo subsequently confirmed that Borré will not be joining La Máquina.
“They were only polls, and in La Noria they are not making progress to obtain their services,” a source close to the negotiations revealed.
Cruz Azul Eyes International Alternatives
Despite missing out on Borré, Cruz Azul remains committed to finding a suitable addition to its attack.Gerardo González reported via social media that the team “continues to explore options to reinforce its attack.” Armando Melgar suggested that a new signing could arrive “earlier than expected,” while César Merlo indicated the club is now focusing on an international attacker, effectively ruling out Borré.
Borré’s Accomplishments
Rafael Santos Borré boasts an impressive trophy cabinet,including:
- River Plate (Argentina): Copa Libertadores (2018),South American cup Winners’ cup (2019),Argentine Cup (2017,2019),Argentine Super Cup (2017,2019)
- Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany): UEFA Europa League (2021/2022)
- Deportivo Cali (colombia): First Category A (Opening 2015),Colombian Super League (2014)
- Internacional (Brazil): Gaucho Championship (2025)
Market Value and contract Situation
According to Transfermarkt,Rafael Santos Borré’s current market value is estimated at €4 million. However, Internacional invested $7 million to acquire him, securing his services with a contract that extends through December 2028.
Cruz Azul’s search for a “nine” continues, with the club prioritizing an international attacker to address the need for depth and quality in its forward line.
