Real Zaragoza has confirmed the transfer of Álex Gomes to newly promoted Serie A side Venezia for a fee of two million euros plus bonuses. The 18‑year‑old midfielder made 15 appearances (13 in league) and now signs a contract until 2032, although the original plan spoke of five years.

How did Álex Gomes' exit unfold?

Gomes joined the Ciudad Deportiva in 2022, progressing through every youth level before reaching Deportivo Aragón. His promotion to the first team came amid a defensive crisis: Insua, Tachi, Radovanovic and Kosa were injured, prompting manager Rubén Sellés to call him for the Copa match against Mutilvera. In LaLiga he debuted against Deportivo and Granada, accumulating 930 minutes and nine starts in the starting eleven.

What went wrong in the club's planning?

The contract he signed in 2024 guaranteed less than €12,000 a year and a €10 million release clause, but Zaragoza's board failed to renew his federative license in January. Without a "A" registration, the player was left without a first‑team shirt and kept his youth status, sparking a dispute with his agents and leading to the eventual sale.

What does the sale mean for Zaragoza?

The €2 million income places the deal among the ten biggest sales of academy players in the club's history, matching Azón (2025) and Lafita (2008). The money arrives at a critical juncture: Zaragoza sits 22nd in Segunda División with 36 points, 8 W‑12 D‑22 L from 42 games, and a recent form of LDLLL. The defence has conceded 59 goals while scoring only 35, leaving the team 46 points behind leaders Racing Santander.

What’s next for the club?

Gomes' departure opens a window to restructure the youth squad and seek reinforcements to address defensive frailties. Management must balance the need for signings with limited squad spots and Segunda’s salary cap. Meanwhile, fans hope the cash will translate into a climb up the table, especially after the latest result – a 0‑2 loss to Málaga on 31 May 2026.

Álex Gomes will continue his career in Italy, but his stint at Zaragoza will remain a lesson on handling young talent at a club fighting to escape the relegation zone.