Universidad Católica is advancing in talks to sign Argentine midfielder Matías Palavecino, a key figure in Coquimbo Unido's title win. The player visited the club's facilities with sports manager José María Buljubasich. As a free agent, his transfer appears imminent to bolster the team for the Copa Libertadores.
Universidad Católica is gearing up for the 2026 season after securing second place in the 2025 Primera División, earning a direct spot in the Copa Libertadores group stage. The club is prioritizing reinforcements, particularly in the offensive midfield area, as stated by coach Daniel Garnero.
Matías Palavecino, a 27-year-old from Rosario, Argentina, stands out as the top candidate. The midfielder, who shone at Coquimbo Unido by winning the club's first-ever league title, was spotted on Tuesday at the precordillera facilities. He arrived with José María Buljubasich, the institution's sports manager, and spent several hours in meetings. Palavecino's contract with the pirates has expired, allowing him to negotiate as a free agent and streamlining the process.
Garnero has stressed the need to bolster the squad: “This squad needs a lot of reinforcement, that's the reality. It's not just two or three like in other places or times. We suffered a lot during the year from the lack of player numbers and obviously in that choice we want to seek players of hierarchy and with resolution power”.
In his best season to date, Palavecino logged 3,330 minutes across 38 matches in the league and Copa Chile, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists. His profile fits perfectly with the Cruzado coach's requirements, making him the potential first signing of the summer.