The transfer market is nearing its deadline, intensifying the momentum of a deal that has been in the works for weeks. Morning actions saw a reshuffle of staff as the agents negotiated, while Osasuna considered its next steps. By afternoon, the agreement moved to its final destination in Alicante. Iván Martínez, the preferred option to compete with Carlos Abad for the starting role, will join Hércules for one season with a unilateral option to extend if predefined personal and team goals are met.
With this move, Hércules secures a reliable option in goal for the upcoming campaign under coach Ángel Rodríguez. Martínez, born in Ágreda on February 19, 2002, began training at age 12 and spent last season on loan in Castellón from Pamplona, where the club agreed to a zero-cost transfer in exchange for a portion of future value from the fee. The reserve stake and future considerations were structured to favor the blue and white goalkeeping plan.
Eight million
The under-23 international is part of Hércules’ plan to boost competition in a critical position. The loan spells and youth international experience signal a path toward a high-level professional career. The eight-million euro clause illustrates the expectations for the young Soriano, as the club in Pamplona prepares for the possibility of competing in Spain’s top division in coming seasons.
The development path has been steady. Martínez gained prominence last season, earning recognition with several standout performances. When the veteran shot-stopper returned, it briefly strained the balance, as the team weighed continuity against fresh competition. The teenager found his footing, and a succession of strong performances cemented his role as a rising talent.
At 20 years old and standing 180 centimeters tall, Martínez emerged as a primary target for the club’s goalkeeping strategy, while veteran goalkeeper Charles the High Priest made a solid start for Hércules, performing well in friendlies against Alcoy, Orihuela, and UCAM. The prior season suggested a dependence on a seasoned custodian, but the current plan aims to diversify options and reduce risk at the back.
Martínez earned recognition with Spain’s Under-16 side, contributing to a triumph in the Dream Cup International Tournament after defeating teams from Japan, Senegal, and Paraguay. The player, who opened the scoring in three June fixtures, is set to begin his first training block with Hércules and is available for travel to Palma with the squad. He is expected to debut in the league against Real Mallorca B, marking an important milestone in his professional journey.
A veteran free agent could sign to reinforce central defense
The Hércules technical staff has elected to hold off on finalizing the senior roster while pursuing a central defender to accompany Marcelo Djaló, Dylan Leiva, and Sergi Molina once the latter is medically cleared. The Alicante club’s plans in this window were not fully disclosed, and coach Paco Peña chose patience, awaiting favorable conditions after meeting target objectives. For now, the Blue-Whites can finalize deals with players who terminated contracts before the current deadline, with non-EU players requiring proper residence status as conditions evolve in light of regulatory considerations.