Riquelme Aims to Reshape Boca Riquelme Aims to Reshape Boca Roster with Lescano, Saracchi Departure Looms
Published: March 6, 2026
Buenos Aires – Juan Román Riquelme is actively maneuvering to bolster the Boca Juniors squad with the addition of Alan Lescano, while simultaneously clearing space within the roster, potentially through the departure of Marcelo Saracchi. The club has secured a quota for a new signing following Lucas Blondel’s move to Huracán.
Lescano Deal Progressing, Foreign Player Quotas in Focus
Riquelme has reportedly reached an agreement with Lescano regarding contract terms, bringing the Argentinos Juniors player closer to joining Boca. However, finalizing the transfer requires negotiation with Argentinos Juniors and Gimnasia de La Plata, who jointly hold the player’s rights (50% each). Boca currently has six non-Argentine players: Carlos Palacios, Williams Alarcón, Oscar Herrera, Edinson Cavani, Adam Bareiro, and Angel Romero. Miguel Merentiel’s recent acquisition of Argentine citizenship has freed up a spot.
Saracchi’s Future Uncertain, Potential Offers from Europe
With the demand to manage foreign player quotas, Marcelo Saracchi is a likely candidate to move on. Saracchi, currently on loan at Celtic, has attracted interest from clubs in England and Brazil, as well as a potential permanent deal with Celtic. His agent, Marcelo Tejera, stated “They looked for him from Nacional and Peñarol”
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“I have planned a meeting with the general director of Celtic because he is also looking to buy the chip.”
Marcelo Tejera, Marcelo Saracchi’s representative
Saracchi’s contract with Boca remains valid until December 31, 2027, meaning he will return to the club in June if a permanent transfer isn’t agreed upon.
Saracchi’s Boca Career in Review
Saracchi played 52 games and scored four goals during his time at Boca, arriving in August 2023. He last featured for the team in May 2026 before being deemed surplus to requirements by the coaching staff.
Key Takeaways
- Juan Román Riquelme is focused on optimizing the Boca Juniors roster.
- The club currently has six foreign players, necessitating potential departures.
- Marcelo Saracchi is likely to exit, with offers from England, Brazil, and Celtic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alan Lescano?
Alan Lescano is a footballer currently playing for Argentinos Juniors, who is a transfer target for Boca Juniors.
What is the situation with Marcelo Saracchi?
Marcelo Saracchi is currently on loan at Celtic and may be transferred to a club in England, Brazil, or remain at Celtic permanently.
How many foreign players can Boca Juniors have?
Boca Juniors is limited to six foreign players in their First Division squad, with only five allowed on the team sheet per game.
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