OFI continues to gradually wrap up the outstanding issues from its summer planning, with the goal of being as ready as possible for the new season. After retaining Nikos Athanasiou on the roster, the Cretans are now turning their attention to strengthening the midfield.

The renewal of Athanasiou’s loan has provided a definitive solution for the left side of the defense, where Apostolakis also plays, as does 18-year-old Pavlos Kainourgakis, whom Christos Kontis plans to utilize more in the new season. The youngster had already made his debut in last year’s league, coming on as a substitute in the match against Volos.

Now, the focus is on signing a winger who can make a difference. The name of Sebastián Palacios has come up—a player with proven quality and significant experience in the Super League, having played for Panathinaikos and Levadiakos. The fact that he is already familiar with the Greek league is a significant advantage, as he won’t need time to adjust.

However, according to reports surrounding the matter, Palasios does not appear to be OFI’s first choice. The Cretans are looking for a player with similar characteristics to Tiago Nunes, but younger, so that he has greater potential for development and possible resale value in the future. Negotiations for this specific position are being conducted in strict confidentiality, and so far the name of the primary target has not been leaked.

At the same time, OFI continues to explore options to strengthen its front line, as the situation with Eddie Salcido appears, by all accounts, to be heading toward a definitive split. Thus, the next transfer moves are expected to involve the signing of both a winger and a striker, in order to finalize most of the roster before the start of preseason training.

*photo source: KYPE