Real Betis and the Columbus Crew are close to finalizing a deal that would send Cucho Hernandez to the La Liga side.
A league source who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the negotiations confirmed to The Athletic that the deal is expected to be announced in the coming days. The La Liga winter transfer window closes today (Monday) at 5pm ET.
The Colombian striker joined the Crew from Watford in the summer of 2022 for a club-record fee of $10million. Hernandez, 25, has scored 49 goals in over 70 appearances across MLS competitions.
It is a surprising move for the Crew who had envisioned a long-term future with Hernandez leading the manager Wilfried Nancy’s front line.
Hernandez quickly became one of the MLS’ marquee players due to his spectacular goals and international pedigree. He was recalled to the Colombian national team last year following his exceptional form for Columbus in both domestic and club competitions and finished second the Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi in the 2024 MVP voting.
Betis, meanwhile, have recently signed Brazilian winger Antony on loan from Manchester United. Led by Uruguayan coach Manuel Pellegrini, Betis are ninth in the La Liga standings and also competing in the UEFA Conference League.
The Crew did not respond to a request for comment.
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Additional reporting: Guillermo Rai
(Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
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