Alejandro Iturbe Joins Elche as New Goalkeeper from Atlético Madrid

Elche have signed Spain U21 goalkeeper Alejandro Iturbe from Atlético Madrid. Atlético retains 50% of the player’s rights in the deal.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Elche signed Alejandro Iturbe, one of Spain’s top young goalkeepers. Iturbe had other offers but chose Elche for his first full La Liga season as a starter. Atlético Madrid‘s retention of 50% of his rights shows their faith in his long-term potential.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR ELCHE AND ITURBE

This move is big for Elche and Iturbe. Elche narrowly managed to get promoted to La Liga with only 2 points advantage to the first team that didn’t gain promotion, Mirandes. They had the best defense in La Liga 2, but the standards and quality of opponents are different in La Liga, and Elche will try to avoid what happened last time around when they got relegated after only a season in La Liga. With Iturbe, Elche hope to solve their goalkeeping problems and strengthen their defense. For Iturbe, 21, it’s a chance to prove himself in Spain’s top league after standing out for Atlético’s reserves and Spain’s U21 team.

LOOKING AHEAD: WHAT’S NEXT?

With pre-season underway, Iturbe will join Elche’s squad for their La Liga opener against Betis on August 18 before playing against Iturbe’s old team, Atletico de Madrid in matchday 2. Betis finished last season in the last spot that qualifies for European football, and has also reached the Conference League final. Competition for spots will be tough as Elche aim to climb the table and avoid another relegation battle. Fans will watch closely to see if Iturbe’s arrival brings the defensive stability needed, while Atlético’s 50% retention leaves open the possibility of a future return if he impresses.