Deportivo Alavés is in advanced talks to sign 23-year-old winger Miguel Rodríguez from FC Utrecht for around €4.5 million. The deal, which would be a permanent transfer, remains unconfirmed by either club, though negotiations are progressing well. Rodríguez, born in Redondela, is under contract with the Dutch side until June 2028, a clause that shapes the transfer structure after FC Utrecht acquired 50% of his rights from Celta Vigo in 2025 -the Galician club retained the other half-.

Who is Miguel Rodríguez and what would he bring to Alavés?

Miguel Rodríguez is a versatile winger who can play on either flank, though he typically starts on the right to exploit his left foot. His speed, dribbling, and ability to arrive in the box make him a profile Alavés needs to add competition on the wings. Last season, the team finished 14th in LaLiga with 43 points -11 wins, 10 draws, and 17 losses- scoring 44 goals and conceding 56 (a -12 goal difference), and sat 51 points behind champions Barcelona. Their next official match is scheduled for February 21, 2027, at home against Racing de Santander.

Key details of the deal and timeline

The potential move would be a permanent transfer, though the shared rights between FC Utrecht and Celta Vigo add complexity to the negotiation. Utrecht bought 50% of Rodríguez’s rights from Celta in 2025, leaving the Galician club with the other half, a setup that requires agreement on future revenue splits. Alavés, looking to bolster its attack ahead of a season where it aims to climb the table, wants to finalize the last details in the coming weeks. After an agreement, Rodríguez would undergo a medical before his official unveiling.

Impact on the team and tactical options

Bringing Rodríguez to Mendizorroza would add depth on the wings, an area where Alavés has sought alternatives to compete in LaLiga. His profile fits the team’s style, which needs offensive variety to break down compact defenses. With 43 points last season, the Vitoria-based side finished just two points clear of the relegation zone, a margin the club will try to widen with signings like this Galician winger. The team closed the campaign on a five-game winless streak (LWWDL) and must start the new season strong to distance itself from danger.