Mendilibar's top midfield target says no
Unai López has rejected Olympiacos' proposal and will sign a new contract with Rayo Vallecano instead (5). A tough blow, manager José Luis Mendilibar specifically pushed for the 30-year-old Spaniard, who was seen as a key piece for the midfield rebuild. Onda Cero reports the renewal is already agreed.
Your club now has to pivot. The search for midfield reinforcements continues, but losing a manager's handpicked target this early in the window stings.
Maffeo talks progress, waiting game begins
Olympiacos remain focused on Pablo Maffeo for the right-back slot following Kostinia's departure to Brighton. The 28-year-old Mallorca defender is the club's clear choice, and reports suggest the framework of a deal worth around three million euros is in place (1).
Patience is now required, Mallorca's internal processes will determine the timeline. The interest is concrete, the player is identified, and the pursuit is serious.
What comes next
Mendilibar still wants an attacking winger with pace, a Greek left-back, and at least one midfielder. The López rejection forces a rethink, but the Maffeo deal looks like it will get done. Keep an eye on Christos Mouzakitis too, Spanish clubs are circling the 19-year-old prospect.
