Anderlecht have identified a concrete and important target to strengthen their midfield. The club are working to sign 24-year-old Spanish midfielder Santi Garcia from Portuguese side Gil Vicente, in a deal that could approach a club record fee. Negotiations have been seriously initiated and a swift resolution is hoped for.
The search for additional creative quality follows the departure of Nathan Saliba, who moved to Villarreal for 15 million euros this summer. Garcia, who was partly trained at Getafe and has played in Portugal since 2024, is seen as a suitable and qualitative successor. Gil Vicente initially held out for a fee exceeding 10 million euros but are now reportedly willing to negotiate for a slightly lower sum. The exact amount of Anderlecht's potential bid has not been disclosed, but talks are genuinely ongoing.
Market activity
A deal for Garcia would immediately place him among the most expensive signings in Anderlecht's history. The club has invested in young talents with potential for added value in recent years. Saliba's exit has created space in the squad and budget for a new creative force. Anderlecht's sporting leadership is convinced that Garcia's profile makes him an ideal reinforcement for the centre of the pitch.
The Spanish midfielder is known for his technical ability, passing and vision. He is expected to fit the playing style of the current team. Anderlecht hope to advance negotiations further this week to bring the player to Brussels as soon as possible. A potential contract duration until the summer of 2030 is being discussed.
Squad building
The potential arrival of Garcia is part of a broader reshuffle of the team. The full squad lists 26 players with an average age of 24. The departure of experienced midfielder Mats Rits, who left on a free transfer to Beerschot, shows the desire to rejuvenate. Adding a player like Garcia would intensify competition in midfield immediately and increase the creative potential.
For a current overview of all players, you can consult the squad page.
Anderlecht will continue negotiations with Gil Vicente in the coming days to reach an agreement. The club has not confirmed an official bid, but the intention to sign Garcia is clear and talks are advanced. A contract for the Spanish midfielder would likely run until the summer of 2030. The transfer would be an important statement of the ambitions of the Brussels club.
