Elche CF have secured the signing of Argentine centre-back Kevin Lomónaco from Independiente for a fee of around four million euros. The deal, confirmed this Wednesday, includes 80% of the player's registration rights and a contract binding him to the Spanish club until June 2030.
Reported first by Marca - Primera, the operation also served to cancel an outstanding debt Elche had with the Argentine side from the previous transfer of Iván Marcone. Lomónaco, aged 24, becomes a key reinforcement for a defence that has conceded nine goals in the first three matchdays of La Liga. The team currently sits 19th in the standings, with just one point and a -6 goal difference.
Who is Kevin Lomónaco?
Kevin Lomónaco is a defender trained in the youth ranks of Lanús who has built his career across several Argentine clubs and a stint in Brazil. Before his time at Independiente, which began in 2024, he played for Platense, Tigre, and Brazilian side Red Bull Bragantino. His profile blends youth with top-flight experience, an aspect highly valued by Elche's sporting direction. The club issued an official statement noting: "El conjunto franjiverde ha alcanzado un acuerdo con Independiente para hacerse con el defensa argentino, que firma con el club ilicitano hasta junio de 2030."
His arrival aims to add solidity to a defensive line that has emerged as an urgent priority. With the team eight points behind leaders Barcelona, any improvement at the back could be decisive in changing the negative dynamic of a season start marked by loss, draw, and loss (LLD).
Where does he fit in the current squad?
The arrival of Lomónaco injects quality and competition into the heart of the defence. The manager will now have more options to configure the backline, an area where consistency has been lacking in the early stages of the campaign. His signing is the most tangible response to the defensive problems highlighted at the start of the league.
With three goals scored and nine conceded, the team's balance demands an immediate change. The Argentine's incorporation comes just before the next home fixture, a crucial match against Real Sociedad on September 7th. Fans can check all the details of the fixtures on our dedicated page. His quick adaptation will be essential to face this challenge with more assurance.
What does this investment mean?
The outlay of approximately four million euros for the majority of Lomónaco's rights represents a clear bet on the South American market and on a player with potential. The financial operation was streamlined by incorporating the cancellation of the Marcone debt, simplifying negotiations between the two clubs.
This investment reflects the club's intention to strengthen the squad not only for the present but also for the medium-term future, given the long contractual link established. It is a move seeking long-term stability in a key position. Details of the updated squad, with Lomónaco included, are available in our squad section.
The signing of Kevin Lomónaco by Elche CF is made official with his contract running for the next four seasons, until the summer of 2030.
