RCD Espanyol signs Alex Calatrava and explains his choice

RCD Espanyol announced on Tuesday the arrival of forward Alex Calatrava from CD Castellón, after the player turned down offers from Celta de Vigo and Deportivo de A Coruña. Calatrava said the club's ambitious project was the decisive factor in signing.

Why did Calatrava prefer Espanyol?

The 24‑year‑old striker explained that, although Celta could offer Europa League football and Deportivo promised a central role in a rebuilding project, Espanyol's vision of the future appealed more. "They told me they were building an ambitious project and that convinced me," he stated at the press conference.

What did Espanyol offer compared with rivals?

Club sources say Espanyol presented an investment plan that includes reinforcements across the squad and a €5 million release clause, similar to the one Fernando Soriano tried to trigger for the player last season. Additionally, director Ramón Rodríguez Verdejo, known as Monchi, sent a welcome message emphasizing the aim to compete for European spots next season.

What does this signing mean for the team's future?

Calatrava bolsters Espanyol's attack, which aims to improve its goal average after a 2025‑26 campaign that produced 38 goals in 38 matches. The club expects his promotion‑play experience to bring leadership to a side targeting a top‑half LaLiga finish.

How did the media react?

Following the presentation, journalists asked the player about Celta's and Deportivo's offers. Calatrava responded without hesitation, highlighting that Espanyol's project lets him "enjoy" and "grow" alongside the new signings arriving this summer. Local press called the decision "one of the first transfer soap operas in the national market."

What’s next for Calatrava and Espanyol?

The forward joins first‑team training on July 12 and is set to make his official debut in LaLiga’s opening match on August 18 against Athletic Club. Meanwhile, Espanyol will keep strengthening the squad, with rumors of further defensive and midfield signings in the summer window.