Chilean football club Colo Colo is navigating a potential personnel shift as they field offers for key defender Alan Saldivia, with Brazilian side Vasco da Gama reportedly leading the chase. The Santiago-based club is proactively considering replacements, identifying four candidates-Óscar Salomón, Junior Barreto, Enzo Roco, and uruguay’s Javier Méndez-to bolster their back line should Saldivia depart. Sources indicate that Uruguayan defender Méndez, currently with Peñarol, is receptive to a move to Chile, potentially streamlining negotiations for Colo Colo as they seek to avoid a repeat of previous defensive gaps following similar player transfers.
Chilean powerhouse Colo Colo is navigating a potentially tricky situation following a recent offer for defender Alan Saldivia from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama. The club reportedly sent a counteroffer to Brazil on January 5th and is now awaiting a response as they simultaneously explore potential replacements. Losing Saldivia could leave a significant hole in the squad, a scenario Colo Colo is keen to avoid after a similar situation with Maximiliano Falcón.
Club directors have identified four players who could fill the void: Óscar Salomón, Junior Barreto, Enzo Roco, and Javier Méndez. All four are believed to be favored by both the coaching staff and the Colo Colo board, potentially streamlining any potential transfer negotiations.
Uruguayan defender Méndez, currently playing for Peñarol, has been on Colo Colo’s radar for some time. He was previously a target before the arrival of Joaquín Sosa, but interest has been reignited, and a move could materialize if Colo Colo accelerates negotiations.
“We view a potential departure favorably”
Sources close to Méndez have indicated a willingness to consider a move to Chile. When asked about the possibility of a transfer, those within the player’s circle stated that they “view a potential move to Chilean football favorably.”
“He could leave Peñarol for a reasonable fee. It just requires Colo Colo to move quickly, and the transfer could happen without problems,” a source stated. The club is reportedly aware they don’t have a substantial transfer budget, making a relatively inexpensive deal for Méndez appealing.
Those close to Méndez suggest securing his services would be straightforward: “Méndez’s transfer is easy and affordable. If the club shows interest and makes a good offer, we would view a departure favorably; he is currently focused on Peñarol, but remains open to the possibility.”
The situation appears promising for Colo Colo, but the final decision rests with the club’s leadership, who hold the player’s contract until December 2026.
What are Peñarol saying about a possible departure for Javier Méndez?
Enquiries were also made to Peñarol officials regarding the potential transfer. While the coach values Méndez, the club wouldn’t oppose a sale, as he isn’t considered an untouchable player, and they are willing to discuss offers.
“He is currently working with his teammates in preseason and remains a valuable player for the club. He is considered by the coaching staff, but the option of a departure isn’t closed, as long as the offer is satisfactory for all parties,” officials stated.
With both clubs seemingly open to a deal, the ball is now in Colo Colo’s court to make a formal offer. Club officials have indicated they are clear on what it would take: “If he wants to leave, the door is open. We should have concrete news regarding this possibility in the coming days.”
Javier Méndez’s 2025 stats for Peñarol
Javier Méndez enjoyed regular playing time last season, featuring in a total of 42 matches, scoring two goals, and receiving seven yellow cards.
