Getafe's anticipated signing of Dani Carvajal has collapsed. The club's president, Ángel Torres, confirmed on Saturday that negotiations for the 34-year-old right-back have broken down due to LaLiga's economic restrictions.
The deal, which had been reported as nearly complete and even included a successful medical examination for the player, could not be finalized. LaLiga, which must approve all player registrations, determined that Getafe exceeds the salary cap set for its squad. Carvajal, a free agent since his contract with Real Madrid ended in June 2024, remains without a club for now.
"Se ha roto todo, no hay nada" (Everything is broken, there is nothing), Ángel Torres told reporters, clarifying the situation. The Getafe chief added that "no hay que cambiar nada, ya os lo dije ayer y os lo vuelvo a decir esta mañana" (Nothing needs to be changed, I already told you yesterday and I repeat it this morning), referring to the financial conditions blocking the move.
The search for a right-back was a priority for manager José Bordalás, who sought defensive alternatives for the demanding season. Bordalás personally contacted Carvajal to explain the club's project and his potential role. The former Madrid defender, with 27 career titles, was open to staying in Madrid and LaLiga, but economic bureaucracy has scuppered the plans.
Getafe faces this setback while sitting 11th in LaLiga with 8 points from 7 games. Their next fixture is one of the toughest on the calendar: a visit to leaders Barcelona this Saturday, 10 October at the Spotify Camp Nou. Bordalás's team arrives with an inconsistent run of form (WLDDL) and seeking defensive solidity against a top-tier opponent.
Although the door appears closed, Torres hinted that a new attempt is not ruled out if the parties can reach an understanding. Meanwhile, the club must look to the market or its academy for the necessary depth at right-back. The first-team squad, looking to steady itself after a shaky start, is detailed in the squad section.
More detail at Record MX
