Liga de Quito eyes foreign player exit to make space for new signings

Liga de Quito faces a roster challenge as it seeks to bring in new talent. The Ecuadorian club currently occupies all eight allowed foreign player slots, necessitating the departure of one player to make room for reinforcements. Gabriel Villamil, a Bolivian midfielder, has emerged as a potential candidate to leave the team.

The primary obstacle to Villamil's transfer appears to be financial. Reports from Ecuadorian media indicate that offers received for the player have not met the club's expectations. Villamil joined Liga de Quito in 2024, initially on loan from Bolívar, before the club purchased his rights for approximately $1 million. He played a key role in the team's 2025 Copa Libertadores semifinal run but has seen his playing time diminish.

At 25 years old, Villamil's market value is estimated at around 1.2 million euros, according to Transfermarkt, though this is a reference figure. He has recently recovered from an ankle injury that sidelined him for about a month, making him available for transfer. Despite being linked with various clubs, his physical issue had delayed potential moves.

The club is also prioritizing the signing of Argentine creative midfielder Lucas Rodríguez, a request from coach Gustavo Álvarez. To finalize this acquisition, Liga de Quito must first free up a foreign player slot, which could accelerate the decision regarding Villamil's future in the coming days.