Valencia manager Ruben Baraja has made it clear that he and the club are still hostage to their finances in the upcoming transfer market. Los Che have been frugal in recent seasons, with most summers seeing a profit – Baraja is not holding hopes of a major offensive this year.

Baraja was asked about their plans after they went down 1-0 to Real Sociedad on Thursday night, a result that ended their unlikely European challenge. His response brought a few chuckles.

“Those of us who know Valencia want it to be in a privileged position [European spots], but that will depend on the budget, it will define what we can aspire to, and that’s difference. I may want to have a Ferrari, but if I have to drive a Skoda… If you get me. Right now the economic difference sets the objectives.”

“I may want to have a Ferrari, but if I have to drive a Skoda… If you get me. Right now the economic difference sets the objectives.”#VCF manager Ruben Baraja on their transfer plans this summer.pic.twitter.com/Ycgiho2nQs

— Football España (@footballespana_) May 17, 2024

However he was happy with the season on the whole, feeling they had met their objectives, with some tipping them for relegation this season, as he told Cadena Cope.

“The goal of this season was to improve on the previous one. The team has achieved it ahead of time, with young kids from the academy, after building a project.”

“I think this entire group of players has given their all. I have seen a brutal commitment, a tremendous effort, and it has to serve as an experience for the future.”

BREAKING: “I think this Sunday will be Morata’s last game at the Metropolitano.”

[: @rubenuria via @_soy_rojiblanco] pic.twitter.com/yt6COfgm2T

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) May 16, 2024

According to Relevo, Baraja’s priority for the summer is a forward. This season he has had Hugo Duro, who has authored his best season with 13 goals, Alberto Mari and Roman Yaremchuk at his disposal, but generally he likes to play with two forwards. The Ukrainian is unlikely to repeat his loan from Club Brugge next summer.

Targets mentioned include Carlos Martin, Atletico Madrid’s young forward who has spent this season on loan at Mirandes, Brest forward Martin Satriano, and Sevilla’s Rafa Mir, who has been keen to return to Los Che for multiple years at this point, and is likely to leave the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

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