Zaragoza signs Sem Westerveld to strengthen the goal

Real Zaragoza has announced the arrival of goalkeeper Sem Westerveld, a foreign signing aimed at stabilising a defence that has let in 59 goals this season. Sitting 22nd in the Segunda División with just 36 points, the club urgently needs a reliable custodian.

Who is Westerveld and what can he bring?

Sem Westerveld, born in San Sebastián, joins from Nástic A after a season in the lower leagues. Unlike the Andrada and Poussin signings, he has never played in Spain, but his experience in high‑pressure leagues equips him to handle risky situations. His height and veteran presence give him authority in goal, something Zaragoza lacked after Cristian Álvarez’s retirement.

Why is the club looking abroad again?

Since relegation, Zaragoza has tried foreign goalkeepers with little success. Andrada, signed in 2025, barely featured and ended up expelled after punching Jorge Pulido. Poussin, brought in for 2023‑24, flopped in several key matches and left without a contract. Westerveld offers a different profile: unknown in Spain but with a solid record in penalties and decisive games.

What does this signing mean for the season?

With Zaragoza losing 0‑2 to Málaga on 31 May and a recent form of LDDLL, Westerveld’s arrival comes at a critical juncture. The team sits 46 points behind leaders Racing Santander and needs to narrow a –24 goal‑difference. A steady goalkeeper could stop more goals and turn some draws into wins.

What lies ahead for the new keeper?

Westerveld will train alongside Anartz Peña, the current starter, and will fight for the first‑choice spot. His performances will be judged in the upcoming fixtures, where Zaragoza aims for at least a point to climb out of the relegation zone. Pressure will be high, but the board believes his signing could be a turning point.

Current club context

Zaragoza sits 22nd in the Segunda División with 36 points (8 wins, 12 draws, 22 losses) and has scored 35 goals while conceding 59. The latest 0‑2 defeat to Málaga on 31‑05‑2026 keeps the side in the danger zone, making the need for a stronger goalkeeper more urgent than ever.