LA Galaxy star Riqui Puig listed as option for Spanish side’s midfield boost

Riqui Puig has become a standout star in MLS with the LA Galaxy, and his name is now circulating in transfer rumors as a potential replacement for Villarreal CF's Alex Baena.

As Baena continues to impress in LaLiga with Villarreal, currently sitting fourth in the standings, several top clubs are reportedly eyeing his release clause, which could be triggered in 2025.

If this happens, Villarreal would receive €60 million, allowing the club to search for a high-caliber replacement. According to Gol Digital, among the most intriguing candidates being considered are Riqui Puig and Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez.

LA Galaxy star Riqui Puig listed as option for Spanish side’s midfield boost

Riqui Puig, a product of FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, has spent the last two seasons in the MLS, where he has developed into one of the league's most influential players. Since joining the LA Galaxy in 2022, Puig’s growth has been evident.

This season alone, he has recorded 13 goals and 9 assists in 28 matches. His impressive numbers reflect his attacking prowess and his ability to control the midfield and dictate the tempo of the game.

It should be noted that Puig has also been linked to Girona FC and Valencia CF as a potential signing in recent weeks. At 25, Puig is in the prime of his career, making him an ideal candidate for a return to LaLiga, where he could truly establish himself as a key player.

While his time at Barcelona was filled with ups and downs due to limited playing time, his move to the MLS has allowed him to gain valuable experience and hone his skills.

Now, Puig could be ready to return to Spain, and Villarreal seems like a fitting destination for the midfielder. Under the guidance of Marcelino Garcia Toral, Puig could seamlessly fit into Villarreal’s system.

In addition to Puig, another player linked with a move to Villarreal is Fermin Lopez. The young Barcelona midfielder faces stiff competition for a place in the starting lineup under new manager Hansi Flick, with the likes of Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong ahead of him.

For Villarreal, securing either Riqui Puig or Fermin Lopez would be a major coup, especially with European competition on the horizon.