'We pushed hard to close the deal' - Did Monterrey steal Anthony Martial from Pumas at deadline? Both clubs break their silence

Martial was unveiled on Friday as Monterrey’s newest signing, with a deal through 2027 for a reported $1.1 million fee. 

“Physically I feel very good, I trained every day in Athens. The jet lag is tough, but I’m ready for tomorrow if the coach decides,” Martial said at his presentation.

He could make his debut on Saturday when Rayados host Club América.

According to multiple reports, Pumas had reached a preliminary agreement with Martial and AEK Athens. The Mexico City club was set to pay $750,000 for the French forward, who had allegedly given his verbal “yes.”

But as the transfer window deadline approached, Monterrey reportedly swooped in with a higher bid and struck a deal directly with AEK.

UNAM’s sporting strategy director Eduardo Saracho expressed frustration over the circumstances, revealing that Pumas had already prepared a formal agreement:

“We began talks with Anthony weeks ago, negotiated with his club, and were allowed to speak with AEK," he said. "We had Zoom calls, phone meetings, and reached a written preliminary agreement. We were preparing everything, and then - just like everyone else - we suddenly saw Monterrey’s announcement.”

Rayados sporting president José Antonio Noriega said that Martial had several offers on the table, but ultimately chose Monterrey:

“We were informed by his agents that he had many alternatives around the world and was analyzing them," he said. "The option that most attracted them was Monterrey, and that’s why he’s here. Domènec Torrent recommended we move quickly for Anthony, and once we agreed internally, we pushed hard to close the deal.”