The Mexican transfer window shuts this Monday at 7:00 p.m. ET, and Cruz Azul is racing against the clock to land a major signing: Nicolás Ibáñez, the 31‑year‑old Argentine striker who is no longer in Tigres’ plans. Ibáñez has been removed from the first‑team roster and relegated to the U21 squad, making his exit all but inevitable.

According to ESPN, Cruz Azul’s front office submitted a formal offer late Sunday night to Tigres in San Nicolás de los Garza. The club has all eight of its “non‑Mexican‑trained” roster spots available, so registering Ibáñez would not pose any issues for head coach Nicolás Larcamón.

Ibáñez’s track record in Liga MX

Ibáñez has played for Atlético San Luis, Pachuca, and Tigres since arriving in Mexico. Across 141 matches, he has recorded: 31 goals, 10 assists and picked up three titles - the Clausura 2023, Campeón de Campeones 2022–23, and the 2023 Campeones Cup

Despite his pedigree, he has struggled to secure consistent minutes with Tigres since 2023, opening the door for a move.

Cruz Azul’s striker problem

Cruz Azul enters deadline day thin at center forward.

That leaves Cruz Azul in urgent need of a proven striker—and Ibáñez fits the profile perfectly.

With the clock ticking toward Monday evening’s deadline, all eyes are on whether La Máquina can close the deal in time.

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