The trajectory of César Montes remains uncertain, and this article outlines the potential destinations that could shape the Mexican defender’s future, from North America to Europe.
Mendocino Montes is viewed as one of Mexico’s standout prospects for the 2026 World Cup, a tournament staged on home soil with Canada and the United States joining the co-host nation. His imposing presence, combined with solid defensive instincts, has marked him as a key asset for both Monterrey and the Mexican national team, catching the eye of clubs across Europe. After a notable season that showcased his consistency, Montes earned a move to Europe this year, representing Espanyol in Spain. Yet a difficult 2022-23 campaign has begun to influence how teams assess his long‑term fit, prompting questions about where his career could go next and what he desires in the next chapter of his journey. Montes has been in training with Espanyol, keeping a close watch on the transfer market as clubs weigh their options and timing—while he evaluates his own path forward in the weeks ahead. This article delves into Montes’ contract situation and the plausible routes his career could take in the near term:
CONTRACT WITH ESPANYOL
Montes arrived in Barcelona in January 2023 in a deal worth about 8 million dollars, a sum that positioned him among Monterrey’s most valuable exports. He signed a five‑year agreement with Espanyol, earning an annual salary of roughly 700 thousand euros. The early momentum built during his debut season in Spanish football suggested a bright horizon; however, the following period raised questions for both the player and his representatives. There was a prevailing belief that a season spent in Spain’s second tier might stall the defender’s rapid ascent, given his age and ambition. The sense among observers was that Montes’ growth would be best served by continuing to face top‑flight challenges in a league that tests his range and decision‑making on the ball. The current situation leaves his immediate future in a delicate balance between how Espanyol values him and how other clubs perceive the upside of bringing him into their setup [Source: Goal].
BACK TO THE MX LEAGUE
During the summer window, chatter circulated about a potential return to Mexican football, with América frequently mentioned as a possible destination. Yet those discussions diminished over time, and at the moment a homecoming to the Liga MX seems unlikely. América’s reported interest approached the level of Espanyol’s investment in Montes, but the financial terms that would be required to reallocate his services to a Liga MX club were substantial, helping explain why a quick repatriation has not progressed. The Sonoran defender’s value abroad remains a focal point for people assessing whether a move back to Mexico would maximize his development or simply reset his progression in a different competitive environment. The overall market dynamics suggest that any reentry into Liga MX would need an alignment of strategy, budget, and playing time that is rarely easy to secure in a crowded transfer window [Source: Goal].
OFFERS IN SPAIN AND ITALY
According to information from sports outlets, Montes has attracted interest from clubs in Spain and Italy. In Spain, Sevilla is among the clubs reported to be weighing a potential bid, though any formal approach would depend on the club streamlining its squad in the defensive slots and making room within its wage structure. Such a move would require reconfiguring some parts of Espanyol’s roster to accommodate a formal offer. Across the horizon in Italy, there is also chatter about a bidder whose identity has not been disclosed publicly; this club would be evaluating Montes as part of its defensive reinforcements before the market closes. The spread of interest underscores Montes’ versatility and the value teams place on a central defender who can contribute in high‑pressure European competitions [Source: Goal].
INTENDED BY PSV
There is growing speculation about a potential transition to PSV Eindhoven, with conversations reportedly taking shape through Claire Sports. If such a move materializes after a stint with Espanyol, Montes could join the Dutch side in time to compete in European competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, where he would reconnect with compatriot Hirving Lozano. The scenario envisions Montes evolving into a crucial component of a club known for a strong defensive philosophy and a track record of developing talent for the biggest stages in club football [Source: Goal].
Overall, Montes’ next steps are being shaped by a blend of market interest, personal development goals, and the strategic needs of potential suitors in both Spain and Italy, with a lingering possibility of European adventure that could set the stage for a continued ascent in the global game [Source: Goal].