Rayo Vallecano have begun their search for a new goalkeeper after Augusto Batalla's injury, with Eibar's Jonmi Magunagoitia emerging as the primary target. Initial contacts have already taken place between the clubs, although a deal remains distant.
Manager Beñat San José has specifically requested the signing of Magunagoitia. The pair worked together for a year and a half at Eibar, where the goalkeeper was an undisputed starter. In the 24/25 season, the Basque keeper was the third least scored-on goalkeeper in the Segunda División, keeping 18 clean sheets and conceding less than a goal per game on average. He played every minute of the league campaign, relegating backup Luis López to Copa del Rey duties.
The serious tibia injury to Augusto Batalla has forced the club to act urgently in the market. Batalla, who joined Rayo in 2025, had established himself as a key piece.
Magunagoitia, aged 27, has spent the last two campaigns as one of the best goalkeepers in the second tier. His contract with Eibar runs until June 2027, after the option extension triggered last February. Eibar might be willing to negotiate his sale, aware of the difficulty in retaining one of their most valued assets next season.
Rayo Vallecano have also sounded out the situation of Aitor Fernández, the Osasuna goalkeeper. This parallel search reflects the need to secure a reliable alternative. The Rayo squad currently includes Dani Cárdenas, but the sporting direction is looking for a top-level competitor.
The transfer window closes soon, so negotiations could accelerate in the coming days. The club needs to strengthen a key position to maintain its ambitions in the top flight, where they currently hold 12th place in our standings table.
The potential departure of Jonmi Magunagoitia would be a significant blow for Eibar, who aim to return to the first division. The homegrown goalkeeper has been fundamental to the azulgrana project. If his transfer is finally completed, the Ipurua club would also be forced to enter the market to find a replacement.
Throughout the summer, Magunagoitia had already attracted interest from several clubs, including Mallorca and Almería. However, the goalkeeper rejected all offers at that time, determined to honour his commitment to Eibar. The opportunity to make the jump to LaLiga with Rayo Vallecano could make him reconsider now.
Rayo Vallecano are scheduled to face Real Betis next September 14th at the Estadio de Vallecas, a match for which the goalkeeping situation should already be resolved.
