Riqui Puig became a standout MLS star with Los Angeles Galaxy and is currently being linked with transfer rumors as a potential replacement for Alex Baena at Villarreal CF.
Baena continues to enjoy good results in La Liga with Villarreal, who currently sit fourth in the table, but several top clubs are reportedly eyeing his contract’s release clause, which could be triggered in 2025.
Villarreal would then receive 60 million euros, allowing the club to find a talented replacement. According to Gol Digital, some of the most interesting candidates being considered include Riqui Puig and Barcelona’s Fermin López.
Riqui Puig, a product of FC Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy, spent the past two seasons in MLS, where he developed into one of the league’s most influential players. Puig’s growth has been evident since joining the LA Galaxy in 2022.
This season alone, he has played in 28 games and has recorded 13 goals and nine assists. His impressive numbers reflect his attacking ability and ability to control the midfield and dictate the tempo of the game.
It should also be noted that in recent weeks, Puig has been rumored to be a potential signing for Girona FC and Valencia CF. At 25, Puig is at the peak of his career, making him an ideal candidate for a return to La Liga and could truly establish himself as a key player.
His time at Barcelona was full of ups and downs as his playing time was limited, but his move to MLS allowed him to gain valuable experience and hone his skills.
Now, Puig could be ready to return to Spain, with Villarreal looking like a suitable destination for the midfielder. Under the guidance of Marcelino García Toral, Puig was able to fit seamlessly into Villarreal’s system.
In addition to Puig, another player who has been linked with a move to Villarreal is Fermin López. Barcelona’s young midfielder faces stiff competition for a place in the starting XI under new manager Hansi Flick, with the likes of Pedri, Gabi and Frenkie de Jong vying for a place in the starting XI.
Signing either Riqui Puig or Fermin López would be a major coup for Villarreal, especially with European competition on the horizon.
