Rubén Cantero, Tenth and Penultimate Signing for Hércules

Rubén Cantero has become the tenth signing for Hércules this summer. The 20-year-old central defender arrives from Barcelona B, having played on loan at Calahorra in Segunda B last season. A native of Caudete, he stood out in the youth categories of Albacete before being signed by Barcelona, where he failed to secure a permanent spot.

Cantero's arrival at Hércules shifts Abraham del Moral to the left-back position, where he will compete with Retu. The central defenders will include the aforementioned Cantero, veteran Josema Gómez, and new signings Antonio Montoro and Alejandro Sotillos.

Cantero is the tenth and penultimate signing for Hércules this summer, as technical secretary Paco Peña and coach Rubén Torrecilla continue to search the market for a U-23 defensive midfielder who can challenge Mario García daily and provide support during matches if necessary.

On another note, midfielder Roger Colomina and forward Oriol Soldevila are the two Hércules players with the longest contracts at the Alicante-based club, both set to expire in June 2028.

Colomina, who joined the club last season, renewed his commitment with Hércules this Tuesday for an additional three seasons. The 26-year-old Catalan played 34 matches and scored three goals last season. He was on the radar of other clubs, prompting Hércules to expedite his renewal before the transfer window closed.

Meanwhile, Soldevila, signed last June from Intercity, also has a contract until 2028. Hércules considers him one of their franchise players for the coming years and a valuable economic asset. Both Catalan players are deemed "strategic" for the Rico Pérez club regardless of the team's competitive category.

Both Colomina and Soldevila had notable performances in their league debut against Ceuta. However, Colomina suffered a nasal bone fracture after being kicked by an opponent. His availability for Saturday's match in Alcorcón is uncertain; if he does play, he will need to wear a protective mask.