Espanyol eyes Uduokhai, Besiktas centre-back

Three weeks from the summer deadline, Espanyol accelerates their defensive search. According to Turkish journalist Ertan Süzgün, the blanquiazul will soon present an official offer to Besiktas for Felix Uduokhai, a 28-year-old German left-footed centre-back. The move aims to complete the defensive line after Unai Núñez arrived, set to partner Cabrera.

Besiktas sees the defender's departure as a chance to free up salary space, creating an opportunity for Manolo González's side. However, a major hurdle exists: Uduokhai earns a high wage that makes fitting him into Espanyol's salary cap difficult.

From the club, Monchi has tempered expectations. "Felix is a good player, I know him from his time in Germany, but he's just one of thousands we're told we'll sign," the sporting director told Pericos on Radio Marca. The executive makes clear that despite genuine interest, a deal remains far from imminent.