Club América's ambitions to strengthen their defence hit a roadblock as Almería rejected their €7.5 million bid, supplemented by €2 million in add-ons, for Mexican centre-back César Montes, as reported by Fabrizio Romano. The 26-year-old has become a highly sought-after player due to his impressive performances both domestically and internationally.
César Montes, born on February 24, 1997, in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, began his professional career with C.F. Monterrey, where he quickly established himself as a key player. Montes' towering presence and commanding performances in Liga MX caught the attention of European scouts. His consistent displays for Monterrey earned him a move to La Liga, where he joined Almería in 2022.
Since his arrival in Spain, Montes has adapted well to European football, becoming a vital part of Almería's defence. His time in La Liga has raised his profile, making him a prime target for clubs looking to bolster their backline.
Montes' prowess is not limited to club football. He has been a significant figure for the Mexican national team, earning over 30 caps. His partnership with Genoa defender Johan Vásquez has been particularly noteworthy. The duo has shown excellent chemistry and understanding on the pitch, providing a solid foundation for Mexico's defence. As Montes is catching the eyes of potential suiters, the same can be said for the Genoa defender with Premier League and Serie A sides after his signature.
His performances were instrumental during the CONCACAF Nations League and the Copa América, offering promising signs for Mexico's defensive stability heading into the 2025 Gold Cup and the 2026 World Cup. Montes' leadership and Vásquez's doggedness complement each other well, making them a promising pair at the heart of the Mexican backline.
Montes is known for his aerial dominance, strong tackling, and ability to read the game effectively. Standing at 6'3", he is an undeniable presence in the box during set-pieces. His composure on the ball and progressive passing also allow him to kickstart attacks from the back, fitting well into a possession-based system.
At Club América, Montes would not only solidify the defence but also bring experience and leadership. His ability to marshal the backline and contribute to the build-up play would be invaluable for the team. Furthermore, his international experience would add a layer of composure and reliability, crucial for América’s aspirations of winning a third consecutive Liga MX title.
The bid of €7.5 million plus €2 million in add-ons reflects Club América's desire to bring Montes back to Mexico. However, Almería's rejection indicates their valuation of the player is higher, likely due to his significant contributions and potential resale value. This rejection underscores the growing market value of Mexican talents in Europe and the competitive nature of securing top-quality defenders.
For Club América, this means they may need to reassess their offer or explore alternative targets. On the other hand, Montes' stock continues to rise, and a successful move, whether to América or another club, seems inevitable given his trajectory and performances.
César Montes remains a pivotal figure in both his club and national team setups. While Club América's initial bid was turned down, their interest highlights Montes' rising profile and importance. As he continues to develop and perform at a high level, Montes is poised to play a critical role in the future successes of his domestic and national team, offering stability, skill, and leadership from the heart of the defence.
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