Mexican International in line for European Move
By Sam Plummer
24-year-old Erick Sánchez could be set for a European move this summer following a stand-out season with Pachuca.
Sánchez scored nine goals and provided nine assists as Los Tuzos won the 2024 CONCACAF Champions League. On their way to lifting the trophy, Sánchez provided an assist as Miguel Rodriguez scored a screamer from range.
Often utilised by Guillermo Almada as a number 10, the midfielder is comfortable playing in a deeper role and down either flank. A creative playmaker, Sánchez proved to be clinical in the Clausura campaign.
Becoming a first-team starter in 2020, Sánchez has been a key figure in the Pachuca squad for the last four years. Rising through the academy, the playmaker spent two seasons on loan at Mineros, in the Mexican second division. His growth has not gone unnoticed as he became a regular name for the national team and has made 26 appearances for Mexico since 2021. This summer, the Pachuca midfielder will star for the national team once more at the Copa América.
The team in question for his signature is Sevilla. The Spanish club have been monitoring him for a year and are in the market to replace the outgoing Óliver Torres, who is reportedly set for a move to Mexico, specifically Monterrey.
The La Liga outfit are in desperate need of a revamp this summer. The club finished the campaign in 14th place, 16 points off a continental position. In a dismal season for Sevilla, only 48 goals were netted across 38 games.
Striker Youssef En-Nesyri carried his weight by scoring 16 league goals this season, but Lucas Ocampos and Dodi Lukebakio could only contribute with nine goals and four assists. The club is crying out for creativity and Sanchez may just be the answer to that
ESPN Desportes confirms the interest from multiple clubs for the midfielder, along with the knowledge that Pachuca are open to listening to offers. It is believed that the Hidalgo club would accept offers upwards of $13 million. However, the ESPN report highlights Sevilla's financial restraints and that the current price tag may be a stumbling block.
Along with the Spanish interest, reports suggest that Cruz Azul are also interested in his signature as the club aims to revamp its attacking outlet for the 2024 Apertura, given the recent news that Atlanta United striker Giōrgos Giakoumakīs is on the verge of a move to Los Azules.
Other interests for the player include Clausura champions América and Second Division Spanish club Real Oviedo, who are currently in a playoff promotion hunt. If they end up being successful, the chances of striking a deal for the player will become much more possible. However, Sevilla remains a favourite for his signature, especially if Torres' move to Monterrey becomes official.