The possibility of Jorge Sánchez leaving Cruz Azul to return to Europe just months before the World Cup is no longer just a rumor — it’s a scenario the club’s front office is actively preparing for.

Advanced talks with PAOK

According to TUDN reporter Adrián Esparza, during Liga MX’s break for Mexico’s friendlies against Panama and Bolivia, Cruz Azul — led by sporting director Iván Alonso — made significant progress in negotiations with Greek club PAOK for the 28‑year‑old defender.

A new offer from PAOK is expected in the coming hours, following the initial proposal the club sent to La Noria last week. PAOK is the current home of striker Giorgos Giakoumakis.

When asked whether Cruz Azul plans to use the foreign‑player slot that will open once Mateusz Bogusz completes his move to the Houston Dynamo, Esparza explained that replacing Jorge Sánchez is not the club’s priority. Instead, La Máquina is focused on strengthening two other positions: a striker and a center back.

Possible right‑back replacements

If Sánchez does leave this month, head coach Nicolás Larcamón is already evaluating alternatives. Omar Campos could be shifted to the right side, and Amaury Morales is also being considered as an internal option to cover the vacancy in Cruz Azul’s back line.

Sánchez is expected to report to Cruz Azul in the next few hours to discuss his future after appearing with the national team in the 1-0 friendly win against Bolivia.