Elche snap up Kevin Lomónaco in flash deal, Independiente get nothing
Kevin Lomónaco has left Independiente after a flash deal saw Elche secure his signature, with the Argentine defender set to fly to España within hours. The agreement was finalised just before the LaLiga transfer window closed, meaning the clubs raced to register him in time.
Flash negotiation and registration
Negotiations moved at breakneck speed, and the clubs managed to file the paperwork before the deadline. As one source put it, they registered him “sobre la chicharra”, swapping contracts at the last moment. The rapid process ensured Lomónaco could be listed in LaLiga’s squad for the upcoming season. The swift filing meant the player could be listed in LaLiga’s official squad list for the new campaign.
Lomónaco bade farewell to his teammates during the solitary evening training session at Avellaneda, collecting his belongings before the departure. He arrives after a stint with Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil between 2022 and 2023. The central defender also brings experience from the Seleccionado national side. His experience in Brazil and with the Seleccionado is expected to aid his adaptation to European football.
Financial breakdown and future rights
The NÚMEROS DE LA OPERACIÓN show a gross figure of USD 5.5 million, a sum that will largely disappear after deductions. First, USD 1.5 million owed for Iván Marcone’s arrears is subtracted, followed by a further USD 1.5 million linked to a 25 percent share owed to Bragantino and unpaid fees. Additional percentages due to the player and his relatives leave the Argentine club with almost no immediate income.
The deal transferred 80 percent of Lomónaco’s registration to Elche, while Independiente retained a 20 percent stake that could generate extra money if a future move occurs. This retained share offers a potential revenue stream beyond the current transaction. The clause ensures Independiente may benefit financially from any future transfer involving Lomónaco.
Lomónaco is contracted with Elche until 2028, having originally been signed by the club for USD 3.5 million for 75 percent of his rights from Bragança Paulista. The long‑term agreement aligns with Elche’s strategy to secure key players for several seasons. His contract runs until 2028, ensuring stability for the Spanish side.
During his spell at Independiente, Lomónaco amassed 89 appearances, contributing two goals and two assists while anchoring the central defence as a regular starter. His two goals came from set‑piece situations, while his two assists highlighted his passing range. He established himself as a regular starter in the heart of the defence.
Elche’s majority shareholder, Christian Bragarnik, oversaw the swift completion of the transfer, adding another high‑profile name to the club’s roster. His involvement underscores the club’s ambition to strengthen the squad ahead of the new campaign.
The transfer gives Elche a defender with European experience and leaves Independiente with little short‑term financial gain, underscoring the club’s reliance on future sell‑on clauses. The deal exemplifies the financial pressures South American clubs face when transferring talent abroad.