During the winter market, Elche CF has begun plans to manage potential contract renewals. The club faces several players whose deals run out at the end of the season, with some agreements actually expiring in 2025. This timeline means the squad could see significant changes before the next campaign if extensions are not secured in time.
Tete Morente
The club has already presented a renewal proposal to Tete Morente. The Cadiz midfielder has not yet replied, with interest lingering from multiple clubs both in August and again in January. Top-flight teams have shown curiosity, and Morente remains free to move. His intention appears to be to assess the situation at the season’s end and determine whether the Franjiverde project aligns with his career goals. It is clear to suitors that Elche will not lack options if a departure materializes.
Tete Morente in the press room at the Martínez Valero stadium
Carlos Clerc
The same pattern applies to Carlos Clerc. The sports commission has indicated a desire for him to remain, but Clerc has chosen to delay his decision and evaluate every aspect before committing.
Mario Gaspar and Josan
Another pair with contracts due on June 30 are Mario Gaspar and Josan Ferrández. They joined last summer on short-term deals and have conditions that could extend their stay if certain benchmarks are met. If Mario Gaspar, aged 33, participates in at least 25 league matches or starts more than 45 minutes in a majority of games, an automatic renewal could follow. He has proven to be a consistent presence in the defense, contributing to the team’s efforts under the current coach and shaping the path toward the regular season finish and possible promotion playoffs.
Josan Ferrández, younger and still finding his footing, has started fewer games due to competition and a recent injury but remains a candidate for renewal if performance and fitness align with the club’s strategic plan. His versatility, able to cover both wing and forward roles, keeps him in the discussion as the winter market progresses. The Crevillent native previously renewed in the off-season with renewed motivation, valuing the chance to continue wearing the Elche colors while remaining open to opportunities should the right offer arise.
Joan Ferrández continues to be evaluated, with recent recovery enabling him to contribute again as needed. The squad’s depth and the coach’s plans for rotation make his future discussion nuanced, but the aim is to keep capable players who fit the team dynamic when possible.
Oscar Plano and Diego González
Oscar Plano and Diego González are among the players whose contracts run through June 30. Plano, 32, joined after a stint with Real Valladolid and made a notable impact before injury, appearing in 21 league matches and starting 13, becoming one of the club’s top scorers with seven goals. His recovery and continued contribution could influence decisions about a second season. The club is weighing whether to extend his deal as part of a thoughtful, stable plan for the attack and midfield lines.
Diego González has faced limited playing time since arriving, with only eight league appearances and two Copa del Rey appearances this season. The dynamics require a reset if Elche hopes to maintain competitiveness and avoid a premature transition at the end of the current campaign. The coaching staff recognizes the need for a robust plan, balancing the present squad with the potential for fresh arrivals or internal promotions.
Elche also intends to begin talks with several players whose contracts will expire in 2025. Although there is time still, the club prefers to avoid last-minute decisions and methodically assess the options. Priority targets include younger players who could strengthen the squad over the long term. Rodrigo Mendoza and John are among those whose future with Elche has drawn interest from other clubs, signaling a heated market ahead as teams plan rosters for upcoming seasons.
In another development, Spain’s Under-19 team added Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza to its squad for international duties, highlighting the player’s rising profile within the club’s framework. The selection underscores Elche’s continued role in developing young talent who could become central figures in the near future.
Eight players in Elche’s current squad are on loan from other clubs, and their contracts expire at season’s end. These players do not belong permanently to the Franjiverde organization, but the club retains the option to buy most of them if the team earns promotion to the First League. The names involved include Nico Castro (Genk), Borja Garcés (Atlético de Madrid), Carreira (Celta), Manu Nieto (Andorra), Arnau Puigmal (Almeria), David López (Mallorca), Jhegson Méndez (Sao Paulo), and Sergio Bermejo (Zaragoza). The club will decide on potential acquisitions based on performance, fit, and the path to promotion as the season unfolds.
The overall approach sees Elche balancing a desire to retain core players with the strategic necessity of refreshing the squad where needed. By evaluating each case with care, the club aims to maintain competitiveness while building a foundation for sustainable success in the coming seasons.