Álex Calatrava opens the transfer window for Espanyol with Monchi

RCD Espanyol

The move represents the pfirst signing of the new era led by Monchi in sports direction. An operation that had been in the works for days and was finally completed in July, coinciding with the reduction of the player's release clause to five million euros.

The Espanyol are bringing in a 26-year-old player who has been one of LaLiga Hypermotion's main attacking references. Calatrava has stood out for his ability to unbalance opponents, his striking, and his knack for showing up in the final meters, qualities that have made him a strong bet for Manolo González's attack.

The Perico club will pay an amount close to the five million euros set in his release clause, although the deal will not be handled through a deposit at LaLiga's headquarters. Talks between the clubs were practically settled days ago, but they waited until the start of July to speed up the final completion of the transfer.

A decisive season in Castellón

Calatrava's performance at Castellón explains much of the interest generated around him. Last season he played 43 matches, 42 as a starter, and finished with 15 goals and 8 assists. His influence on the offensive play of the orellut side was constant, with output, runs, and a leading role in a campaign that has opened the door to the top flight.

Luis Tevenet, who coached him at Atlético Madrileño, recently highlighted his progress and potential: "Right now he is a very decisive player, who in Segunda has put together two magnificent campaigns. He has a fabulous left foot. I'm sure he will make the step up, just as he will do with Espanyol".

Trained at Catalan football clubs such as UA Horta, UE Sant Andreu, CF Parets, UE Sants and UE Costa Brava, Calatrava later moved through the Atlético de Madrid B team, with whom he earned promotion to Primera RFEF. He then signed for CD Castellón, where he established himself with 75 appearances, 21 goals and 19 assists.

The arrival of ‘Cala’ kicks off a stretch of the transfer market that points to more movement at Espanyol. The Dutch left-back Quilindschy Hartman, coming from Burnley, and the Brazilian pivot Gabriel Moscardo, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, are emerging as the next reinforcements planned to come under Manolo González's orders at the start of pre-season 26-27.