Atlético Nacional is ramping up its efforts to finalize player acquisitions as the closure of the transfer window approaches for the first semester of 2025. Having already signed prominent players such as Matheus Uribe, Camilo Cándido, Faber Gil, and Billy Arce, the club is not finished yet. They are eyeing one more potential addition to bolster their squad as they prepare to compete seriously for the Copa Libertadores.
The club's interest seems to pivot on the current state of play at Monterrey, Mexico. Monterrey's defensive player, Carlos Salcedo, recently suffered an injury, pushing the club to urgently seek replacements to fill his position. José Antonio Noriega, the president of Monterrey, confirmed the team's review of options to compensate for this loss, noting complications because their roster of foreign players is already at capacity. This situation might necessitate letting go of another player.
Reports indicate Colombian midfielder Johan Rojas, who joined Monterrey just after previously being on Atlético Nacional's radar, is now seen as the most likely candidate to be sold. The 22-year-old had previously been close to signing with Atlético Nacional before his transfer to Monterrey. Given the recent injuries and roster challenges at Monterrey, Rojas may find himself available for transfer again, leading to renewed interest from Nacional.
Discussions about Rojas have reportedly begun, with Atlético Nacional reaching out to assess the feasibility of bringing him back immediately or planning for an acquisition by June. Club president Sebastián Arango and sporting director Gustavo Fermani are at the forefront of these negotiations, having made significant progress already.
Johan Rojas has also shared his excitement about potentially joining Atlético Nacional, expressing positive sentiments during the show "Gente, Pasión y Fútbol." "I am optimistic about the opportunity to wear green," he stated, showcasing his eagerness to play for the club.
This prospective move presents itself as the final surprise of Atlético Nacional’s transfer market endeavors. Following the departure of Pablo Ceppelini, the addition of Rojas could fill the gap he left behind and add depth to the squad heading toward the intense competition of the Copa Libertadores.
The decision concerning Johan Rojas now rests squarely with Monterrey’s management about whether they will prioritize acquiring another player, which would create the opportunity for Rojas to transfer. They have two options: bring in a local player or secure the signing of another foreign player. Should they opt to sever ties with Rojas, it opens the door for Atlético Nacional to make their move.
The anticipation around this potential transfer is palpable among Atlético Nacional's supporters, eager to see their team strengthen as it heads toward significant matches. If Rojas does join, it wouldn’t just be another player added to the roster; it would mark the closing of one of the most exciting transfer windows for the club as they aim high for the challenges lying ahead.
All eyes will be on Monterrey's decision-making process as it may well dictate whether Johan Rojas can once again don Atlético Nacional's green shirt, igniting hope and aspiration among the club's fans for the season to come.