With the 2025 Liga MX Apertura, just a few weeks away, Cruz Azul rises against the clock to strengthen his selection and to stay in fight after a strong show in the Clausura. Sports director Iván Alonso is leading efforts to hand in two high-profile reinforcements to sharpen the attack: former Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic and Uruguayan playmaker Giorgian de Arascaeta. But although one deal looks increasingly realistic, the other slides out of reach.
Jovic transmits a realistic opportunity
Jovic, 27, will become a free agent when his contract with AC Milan ends on 30 June. That status makes him a particularly attractive option, because Cruz Azul does not have to pay transfer costs or negotiate with another club.
According to well -produced reporters such as César Luis Merlo, conversations between Jovic's Camp and Cruz Azul are considerably advanced. The Mexican side is said to offer an annual salary near $ 5 million – a considerable figure of Liga MX standards, but one that reflects both Jovic's family tree and the ambition behind the club's project.
Jovic had a Stop-Start campaign in Italy last season and appeared in 17 games in Serie A and the Coppa Italia. However, he only registered 693 minutes and scored four goals. Injuries played a role in limiting his impact, but his experience in the top of European football and his profile as a real Nr. 9 Making him a compelling option to lead the line in Mexico. Although Brazilian side Botafogo is also linked to the rush hour, Cruz Azul is currently being seen as the leader to land his signature.
Cruz Azul's The Arascaeta Wish Fading
Things are much more complicated when it comes to Giorgian de Arascaeta, who is currently playing at the FIFA Club World Cup. The 31-year-old remains a central figure at Flamengo and stands for a contract with the Brazilian giants until December 2026. His current market value is estimated at around € 15 million (around $ 16 million), but Flamengo is reportedly keeping closer to $ 20 million.
That price tag appears to be a big barrier for every club that wants to pry him – including Cruz Azul. The interest of the club in the Arascaeta is not new; It dates at least until May 2024. But the basic principles have not changed: signing him would not only require a major financial edition, but also the willingness of the Arascaeta to leave a leading role in one of the most important clubs in South America.
Although Cruz Azul recently checked in the situation of the player, there are no indications that serious negotiations are underway.
Ex-real Madrid Vooruit now La Máquina's top priority
When comparing the two goals it is easy to see why Jovic came forward as the top priority of Cruz Azul. His free agent status gives the club a much simpler path: they only have to cover his salary and possibly a signing bonus. Bringing in the Arascaeta, on the other hand, would require a huge financial obligation and complex conversations with Flamengo.
Jovic is also a more direct need from a tactical perspective. Ángel Sepúlveda delivered an impressive 12 goals in 26 Clausura matches, but Cruz Azul needs more offensive depth and firepower to compete on several fronts, especially with the Leagues Cup on the Horizon.
For now, all signs point to Jovic as the center of the summer ambitions of Cruz Azul-and a potential game changer in their urge to domestic and international glory.