Osasuna has blocked a potential transfer for goalkeeper Aitor Fernández to Rayo Vallecano. The Navarre club will not negotiate with the Madrid side and would only allow a departure if his release clause is met.
Rayo Vallecano had shown interest in the Basque keeper following a serious injury to their goalkeeper Augusto Batalla. However, Osasuna's sporting management considers Fernández part of the squad for this season and does not intend to strengthen a direct rival. "The red club counts on the goalkeeper for this season and does not contemplate strengthening a direct rival with him," the Navarrese outlet stated. So far, Osasuna claims it has not received any formal proposal from Vallecas.
Aitor Fernández is under contract with Osasuna until June 30, 2027. His deal includes a release clause valued at 14 million euros. The 34-year-old goalkeeper has not held recent talks with the club about his future and continues training normally at the Tajonar facilities. In goal, Sergio Herrera began the campaign as the starter, a position that reflects the internal competition visible on our squad page.
Osasuna's stance is firm. They are not seeking a replacement for Fernández nor do they plan to initiate sale talks. This decision leaves Rayo Vallecano in a tough spot, as they only have Dani Cárdenas as a fully available first-team goalkeeper. The franjirrojo club must explore other market alternatives, such as Eibar's Jonmi Magunagoitia, before the registration deadline closes.
Osasuna's squad for the 2026/27 season shows an experienced goalkeeping unit. Sergio Herrera, aged 33, was the keeper with the most appearances last campaign. Aitor Fernández, albeit with fewer minutes, brings experience and familiarity with the club. The third option is the young Unai García, 21, who primarily features for the reserve team. This role distribution is clear when reviewing the data in our stats section.
The decision to retain Fernández provides depth and security in a key position. With a demanding fixtures schedule ahead, having two top-level goalkeepers is an advantage. Herrera has the coaching staff's trust, but internal competition is always healthy. Fernández will only leave the club if someone pays his 14 million.
Rayo is forced to search for a goalkeeper due to Augusto Batalla's long-term injury. With the transfer window still open, their sporting director must act quickly. Jonmi Magunagoitia from Eibar appears as one concrete alternative. Another possibility is turning to the free agent market or a last-minute loan.
Osasuna's refusal to negotiate shuts a door that seemed slightly ajar. Rayo currently holds a mid-table position in the standings and needs to solve their goalkeeping issue to maintain their aspirations. The transfer window is their only immediate chance to cover this significant absence.
The market's closure will determine the final picture. Osasuna maintains its unmovable stance, protecting a valuable asset and sending a clear message about its sales policy. For now, Aitor Fernández's future remains tied to the red club.
