Chivas reportedly considering Mexican international César Montes as defensive reinforcement ahead of Apertura 2025

Chivas are already shifting focus toward the upcoming Apertura 2025, after failing to secure a spot in the playoffs this season - an outcome that led to the dismissal of head coach Gerardo Espinoza, who had taken over mid-season from Spaniard Óscar García.

In a bid to end an eight-year title drought, the Guadalajara club is reportedly preparing a major signing, with top priority given to strengthening their back line. El Rebaño Sagrado are considering a move for Mexican international César Montes, currently playing for Lokomotiv Moscow.

Less than a year after arriving in Russia, the 28-year-old center back has reportedly emerged as a key target for Chivas’ sporting director Javier Mier and club leadership - despite the fact that a new head coach has yet to be appointed.

Montes is under contract with Lokomotiv until mid-2029. To secure his transfer, Chivas would need to spend more than $5.5 million. Since joining the Russian club in September 2024, the defender has made 17 appearances, scoring twice and registering one assist. With a strong chance of being part of Mexico's 2026 World Cup squad, his signing would represent both a short-term fix and long-term investment.

The defensive line has been one of Chivas’ weakest points, especially following the departure of Jesús “Chiquete” Orozco to Cruz Azul. The team conceded 24 goals in 17 matches during the regular phase of the Clausura 2025. With Orozco and Gilberto Sepúlveda previously anchoring the defense, stability at the back had been a recurring theme - one the team has struggled to recapture.

According to Fox Sports, Chivas have already made initial contact with Montes. Still, the club’s immediate priority is to appoint a new head coach. Former Manchester City assistant Domenec Torrent appears to be leading the race, though national team coach Jaime Lozano and Liga MX veteran Guillermo Almada are also under consideration.

Defensively, the next manager would have the following players at his disposal: César Montes (if signed), Gilberto Sepúlveda, Miguel Tapias, Luis Olivas, Alan Mozo, José Castillo, Leonardo Sepúlveda, and Raúl Martínez.

Montes’ addition would provide much-needed experience and aerial dominance to a back line that has lacked consistency. Since moving abroad in 2023, the player known as "El Cachorro" has endured a tumultuous stint in Europe - first joining Espanyol in Spain, who were relegated that season.

He then signed with Almería, but suffered another relegation before landing in Russia. A return to Mexico could mark a new chapter, and possibly redemption, with one of Liga MX’s most storied clubs.

While still in search of a replacement for Espinoza, Chivas is set to begin its Leagues Cup campaign on July 31 against the New York Red Bulls. The Guadalajara club will also face Charlotte FC and FC Cincinnati in the group stage.

No preseason friendlies have been confirmed yet, but the squad is scheduled to report back for training on May 21.