Elías Montiel, 19, is one most promising young talents emerging in Mexico right now.
The Hidalgo-born central midfielder has enjoyed a breakout season with Pachuca, establishing himself as a key name at the heart of their midfield.
Los Tuzos have built a reputation for developing exciting young players, with Hirving Lozano being one of the most notable names to come through their ranks. Meanwhile, Erick Sánchez also earned European attention before he switched from Pachuca to Club América last year. Now, two major European clubs have reportedly submitted a bid to sign Montiel.
Who is Elías Montiel?
Back in December, Montiel was first put on the radar of European clubs after picking up the Bronze Ball award at the FIFA Intercontinental Cup for his performance against Real Madrid in the final, joining Vinicius Jr and Federico Valverde on the podium.
This season, the exciting prospect has featured in 42 matches across all competitions, contributing 3 goals and 2 assists, while proving there’s much more to his game.
One of Montiel’s standout qualities is his ability to carry the ball forward with confidence and control. In the Mexican topflight this season, he recorded 67 progressive carries and 185 progressive passes, numbers only beaten by Piero Quipse of Pumas and Tigres' Fernando Gorriarán.
Across the league's other central midfielders, none made more tackles than Montiel, who racked up 76 over the campaign whilst also making the most interceptions of any midfielder in the league.
The season ended abruptly for Pachuca, who failed to make it beyond the play-in competition to reach the Liga MX Clausura playoffs. Regardless, excitement was in the air in Hidalgo with their side heading Stateside to participate at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Unfortunately for Pachuca, two defeats in their opening two matches left them with no chance of reaching the knockout stages. However, the competition provided valuable exposure for Montiel, who has earned widespread praise for his performances.
"He’s a young player, but with a good presence already; I’ve only seen him against Salzburg and now against us, but you can tell he has good ball control and a great future ahead"Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid Manager
Despite losing its first two games, Montiel grabbed Pachuca's only goal in the 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid. In the opening game loss to RB Salzburg, he recording a 75% tackle win rate, 100% ground duels won and 13 passes into the final third, more than any other player.
Which clubs have made bids to sign Elías Montiel?
Since the start of the FIFA Club World Cup, reports suggest that both Ajax and Braga have made offers to lure Montiel to Europe.
The young Mexican talent is valued at €5 million on Transmarkt, but Pachuca would likely require an offer of at least twice that amount to consider parting with one of their most exciting prospects.
Ajax, who have a talent partnership with Los Tuzos, would be the favourites to land the midfielder, though a significant offer from Braga could yet turn his head.
Where will Elías Montiel go this summer? Let us know!
Read More: