After weeks of speculation and a heated battle involving Valencia and West Ham United, Uruguayan striker Maxi Gómez has finally found a new home.
Gómez traveled from his native country to Valencia on Thursday to complete a physical with Valencia and officially sign a new contract to join the Champions League club on a five-year deal.
Valencia acquired Gómez from Celta Vigo, where he spent the past two seasons, racking up a total of 31 goals and 10 assists with the Galician club in 71 games. What makes his performance even more impressive with Celta was the young age at which he produced, as he joined the La Liga club at only 21 years old.
Celta will reportedly receive Valencia forward Santi Mina and upwards of $15 million, along with a loan for center back Jorge Sáenz, as compensation for Gómez’s acquisition.
Valencia beat out Premier League side West Ham United for Gómez’s signature, as the prolific striker reportedly preferred the opportunity to participate in the Champions League and to remain in La Liga over West Ham’s higher money offer.
The soon-to-be 23-year-old is expected to slot into Valencia’s lineup immediately and become a key part of their offensive attack.
