Zaragoza breaks signing limits: 4 spots left to complete Segunda squad

The Real Zaragoza has no age restrictions on signings in Primera RFEF. With 13 players over 23 (plus Ander Herrera, bringing the total to 14) and just 6 under-23, the club has room for 4 more over-23 signings without exceeding the 18-player cap. A major advantage for Lalo Arantegui, who seeks to finalize his squad with two center-backs, a striker, and a left winger after a shaky start: 22nd in Segunda with 36 points (8W-12D-22L), 35 goals scored and 59 conceded, 46 points behind leaders Racing Santander.

Why can they sign without restrictions?

RFEF rules cap 18 licenses for players over 23 in Primera RFEF, but Zaragoza already complies: with 14 over-23 players (including Ander Herrera, whose signing will be confirmed soon) and just 6 under-23 (Pau Sans, Hugo Pinilla, Lucas Terrer, Raúl Pereira, Saidu, and Barrachina), the club has 4 free spots to strengthen its squad. This allows the board to prioritize quality over age, critical after a LDLLL in the last five games and the 0-2 loss to Málaga on May 31.

Which players are still needed?

According to Arantegui’s plan, the squad will total 22-23 players, with two per position as the base. The most urgent gaps are: - Two center-backs (or three if Hugo Carrillo and Barrachina leave on loan). - A striker to partner Edu Espiau and Pau Sans. - A left winger, where Hansson is currently the main option, but Pinilla or Cuenca could step in. - A right-back, with Jokin Gabilondo as starter and Francho Serrano as flexible backup.

What about outgoing players?

Liso and Bazdar are confirmed departures, though with conditions. Among over-23 players, Hugo Carrillo could leave if he fails to impress in preseason, while Saidu would only depart for a blockbuster offer. Francho Serrano, meanwhile, is expected to stay, as confirmed by Arantegui in his last press conference.

The context: Zaragoza’s fight to avoid relegation

After the 0-2 loss to Málaga (May 31), Zaragoza has 35 goals conceded and a -24 goal difference, highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements. With 46 points behind leaders Racing Santander, the goal is to solidify the squad and avoid relegation. The arrival of Ander Herrera—already official—and potential signings in the coming weeks will be decisive in turning around a disappointing season.