Real Madrid have secured the signing of promising younger striker Fran Santamaría from CD Castellón, with the 17-year-old set to affix the membership’s academy subsequent season.
Santamaría departs his hometown membership after spending nearly all of his growth years there, bringing an finish to an eight-year spell during which he steadily rose by means of the ranks and established himself as one of many standout skills in Spanish youth soccer.
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The ahead arrives in Madrid off the again of a powerful marketing campaign, scoring 15 targets throughout 32 appearances. Despite being a second-year youth participant, Santamaría cut up his time between Castellón’s Juvenil A aspect and the B group, adapting seamlessly to increased ranges of competitors.
He discovered the online 13 occasions in simply 17 matches within the División de Honor, Spain’s high youth league, whereas additionally contributing two targets in 15 appearances for Castellón B within the Segunda Federación. His performances not solely made him probably the most productive attackers in his class, but additionally underlined his capability to compete in opposition to older opposition.
Standing at 1.85 meters and cozy with each ft, Santamaría has constructed a fame as a well-rounded striker with a pure eye for objective. His speedy growth didn’t go unnoticed, as he progressed from youth soccer into coaching with the reserve aspect, signaling his readiness for the subsequent step.
The transfer to Real Madrid represents a serious milestone in his profession, with Santamaría changing into the most costly youth sale in Castellón’s historical past. He will now proceed his growth at Valdebebas, becoming a member of La Fábrica as a part of the membership’s long-term funding in rising expertise.
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Castellón confirmed the switch with an announcement thanking the participant for his dedication and professionalism all through his time on the membership, whereas wishing him success within the subsequent chapter of his profession.
Santamaría additionally shared an emotional farewell message, reflecting on his journey and the influence of his boyhood membership.
“The day I never imagined has arrived,” he wrote. “I’ve spent eight years at the club of my life, and now I say goodbye to Castellón—a place where I’ve grown not only as a player, but as a person.”
He went on to thank his household, coaches, and teammates for his or her assist over time, emphasizing the values of humility and laborious work that formed his growth.
“I will always be a Castellón fan,” he added.