Nico Fernández, the Most Expensive Sale in Elche's History

The days of Nico Fernández Mercau at Elche are numbered. This is confirmed by the most prestigious media outlets in Argentina and journalists specialising in the South American transfer market. The club's owner, Christian Bragarnik, has seized the opportunity to cash in and has not hesitated. Nico Fernández Mercau is finalising his sale to City Group for an amount exceeding ten million euros, making it the most expensive operation in Elche's centenary history. According to these sources, Nico Fernández will begin his new journey at New York City in the MLS.

Economically, it is a perfect deal for Elche, similar to the sale of Nico Castro to Toluca for five million, but from a sporting perspective, it is a significant loss, as the winger was a key player in the promotion. Bragarnik had already warned in January that it was difficult to keep him, and now it seems he will bid farewell to Martínez Valero after showing an outstanding level. The promotion to the top division has not altered his path, and the club is determined to sell him.

So far, the only confirmed signing is winger Germán Valera, and anxiety is beginning to be felt among the fans, as the team starts pre-season this Saturday and has only parted with players who made a difference.

On the other hand, Elche and Josan Ferrández will continue their journey together. The local player has renewed his contract until June 2026, thus extending a story of commitment to the green stripe that is already part of the club's history.

With 258 official matches, José Antonio Ferrández Pomares (Crevillent, 03/07/1989) is already the twelfth player with the most appearances in Elche's centenary history, but his numbers are only part of the legacy: his dedication and passion with the fans have made him one of the great idols of the franjiverde supporters.

In the last season, his performance was exceptional. With four goals and nine assists, he was one of the driving forces behind the team's promotion to the First Division, leaving a mark in key matches with his talent and unique ability to appear in decisive moments. He is the only player to have achieved three promotions with the team, two of them to the top division.

"The club renews a key player in Eder Sarabia's plans and a reference point, thus strengthening its sports project with a fundamental player both on and off the field. The 2025/2026 season will be Josan Ferrández's ninth in the first team, with an unquestionable career that confirms his loyalty to Elche," highlights the club in its statement.