Movistar Inter has achieved a notable hat-trick in the summer transfer market. It is confirmed that the Madrid-based team has finalized its initial trio of signings: Lucão, Javi Mínguez, and Bebe. This trio of new Interistas hails from Jimbee Cartagena, with all three concluding their contracts on June 30th and set to arrive with free agency to Torrejón for the upcoming season. Not only does this bolster the Interista squad, but it also weakens the reigning champions of the Spanish Super Cup.
Lucas Vinicius de Santana Brito aka Lucão and Javi Mínguez had sealed their contracts in January, each committing to three seasons. The most recent and perhaps most surprising addition is Rafael García Aguilera, better known as Bebe, who has secured a two-season agreement, pending finalization. The Cordoba striker has already communicated his decision to leave for Jimbee Cartagena. This exchange of players between teams is a rare sight, as Movistar Inter’s pursuit of Lucão and Javi Mínguez. Cartagena’s abandonment of both players prompted their search for replacements. Initially, they secured the signature of Almeria native Francisco José Cortés Hernández for three seasons. Later, they finalized the acquisition of Brazilian winger Jonathan Linhares now playing for Osasuna Magna for the next two campaigns.
Bebe’s departure wasn’t unexpected for Cartagena, as they had offered him a renewal for one season.
Having arrived from Movistar Inter four seasons ago, Bebe will return to Torrejón de Ardoz on June 30th for a second stint. Despite offers from Cartagena, Interista’s higher financial proposal and the inclusion of the two seasons Bebe desired clinched the deal.
Jimbee Cartagena faces the sudden loss of three pivotal players from their lineup. However, it’s not all bleak, as they have managed to retain Italian-Brazilian Gabriel Motta. With only Spanish-Brazilian Tomaz Braga currently under contract, the imminent renewal of captain Jesús Izquierdo looms large. Coach Duda must now decide whether to explore the market for a point guard or elevate the roles of Dario Gil and the talented Huginho, currently on loan to Córdoba World Heritage Site.
Following Pato’s dismissal on October 18th, Movistar Inter entrusted Alberto Riquer with the helm. Initially viewed as a temporary solution, Riquer has firmly established himself on the Torrejonero bench. Overcoming a period of inconsistent play, the Interista squad has amassed 13 of the last 15 available points, with 4 wins and a draw, solidifying their place in the playoff zone. Coach Riquer has received a renewal offer and is collaborating with technical secretary César Muñoz to shape the squad for the upcoming season. This includes deciding on the departure of players whose contracts are expiring, such as Rubi, Sepe, Humberto, and Drahovsky, as well as those not in contention, like Jani Korpela and Kaito Yamada.