Movistar Inter has secured a major coup in the futsal transfer market by signing Francisco Paniagua Soler, one of Spain’s most promising talents. The 26-year-old from Huércal will join the reigning winter champions when his contract with Peñíscola Servigroup expires on June 30, having agreed to a three-year deal.
The Madrid club’s technical secretary César Muñoz moved swiftly and discreetly to complete the signing, continuing their successful recruitment strategy that saw them attract Lucao from Jimbee Cartagena last season. Their quick action proved crucial, as they faced potential competition from Japanese side Nagoya, managed by Imanol Arregui, and domestic rivals ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida.
Paniagua’s connection with ElPozo runs deep, having spent four seasons in their youth setup. He made his first-team debut for them in September 2017 during a Spanish Super Cup match against Movistar Inter, under then-coach Eduardo Sao Tiago. His development continued with success in the Second Division, where he won the league title with ElPozo’s reserve team in 2018 under Josan González.
Since joining Peñíscola Servigroup in 2019, Paniagua has established himself as one of the league’s standout performers, netting an impressive 112 goals in five seasons. This campaign has been particularly notable, with the left-winger scoring 11 goals in 15 appearances and leading the league in shots taken with 159 attempts. His contributions have been instrumental in Peñíscola’s remarkable season following their promotion in 2023.
At 26, Paniagua is entering his prime years, which made the domestic move more appealing than the prospect of playing in Japan. Movistar Inter’s swift negotiation and attractive terms helped them secure the Spanish international’s signature ahead of their traditional rivals ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida.
