Liga MX giants Monterrey closing in on shock signing of Spain international

Monterrey have set their sights on Betis midfielder Sergio Canales and are optimistic about their chances of landing the Spain international, AS reports.

The Liga MX giants are looking to strengthen their squad after going without league success since 2019 and they believe Canales could be the man to help them to the next level.

The 32-year-old has been a key figure at Betis since joining them from Sociedad in 2018, but is reportedly looking for a new challenge in the closing stages of his career.

Canales has a contract with Betis until June 2026, but the Liga side are believed to be willing to let go of the gifted midfielder if an offer in the region of $10 million comes in.

Monterrey are ready to offer Canales a three-year deal worth $15m net, making him the club's highest-paid player by some distance.

Canales would not be the first high-profile name from Europe to make his way to Monterrey if the transfer were to materialise.

They previously brought in Netherlands international Vincent Janssen from Tottenham.

The attacker wore the Monterrey jersey between 2019 and 2022, before leaving the club for current Belgian champions Antwerp.

The creative midfielder started his career with Racing Santander, before joining Real Madrid in 2010. Injury problems prevented him from making an impact at the Santiago Bernabeu side.

Canales was part of the Spain squad that lifted the UEFA Nations League back in June, beating Croatia in the final after penalties.