Valencia take firm step towards signing Alaves star, move for Real Madrid starlet not prioritised | OneFootball

Valencia are in the market for a new left winger, and they want to wrap up a deal by the end of this month. They have the possibility to sign Peter Federico on a permanent basis from Real Madrid, although for now, they are prioritising another option.

According to Radio MARCA (via Relevo), that is Alaves’ Luis Rioja. The 30-year-old amassed five goals and four assists in La Liga last season, and Valencia consider him to be a very good option to improve their squad. He would cost €2m, the same amount that it would take for Los Che to buy Federico.

Real Betis had been favourites to sign Rioja, and the player himself had prioritised that move, but currently, Los Verdiblancos are not pursuing a deal, which has allowed Valencia to steal pole position in the race.

It remains to be seen whether Betis go for Rioja, although even if they do, they may find it difficult to catch up to Valencia. It will also be interesting to see how Federico’s situation plays out – right now, a return to Real Madrid looks the most likely outcome for him.