Sevilla getting closer to Ecuadorian Mercado

Sources told EFE that Sevilla will pay around €6 million for the 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who is expected to sign a contract running until June 2031.

Mercado joined Independiente del Valle in 2022 and has since made 116 competitive appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing roughly 30 assists. His consistent performances earned him a senior debut for Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier against Paraguay last September.

The Andalusian club initially sought to bring Mercado to Spain in the winter, but financial constraints prevented the move. According to Diario de Sevilla, Sevilla's sporting directorate, led by Antonio Cordon, revived the operation amid reported interest from Chelsea.

For the transfer to be completed, the club must satisfy league salary rules and free up a non-EU player slot. His arrival will be Sevilla's second confirmed signing for the 2026/27 season, following the free transfer of right-back Juan Iglesias from Getafe.