Buenos Aires, January 24 (NA) -- Estudiantes de La Plata is going through decisive hours in the transfer market and runs a serious risk of losing two of its main references from the current squad: Edwin Cetré and Santiago Ascacibar. Athletico Paranaense, Boca Juniors, and the 'Pincha's' board are involved in the negotiations, in a context of competitive recess that will have definitions in the coming days. First, Athletico Paranaense has reached a preliminary agreement with Estudiantes de La Plata to sign Edwin Cetré. Meanwhile, River Plate, which was at one point linked to the Colombian's name, has not made a move, which paved the way for Athletico Paranaense to advance with greater decision. But the concern in La Plata does not end there. Estudiantes de La Plata and Boca Juniors maintain negotiations for Santiago Ascacibar, captain and absolute reference of the squad. In this case, there is a formal offer for the player, presented by the 'Xeneize' club, which seeks to reinforce its midfield with a player of hierarchy, leadership, and knowledge of Argentine football. Conversations between both institutions will continue over the weekend, with meetings planned to try to bring positions closer. The market gives no truce, and Estudiantes, a protagonist on and off the field, prepares for a weekend that can mark a before and after in its sports project. His possible departure would not only represent a significant loss from a footballing point of view but also a blow in terms of identity for the team, which would lose one of its most decisive players in one-on-one situations. Ascacibar, a symbol of the team and a commanding voice in the locker room, represents much more than a market value, and his possible departure would force a profound reconfiguration of the midfield. In this context, Estudiantes de La Plata faces a complex scenario. The board is working against the clock to maintain the squad's competitiveness, while evaluating alternatives that allow it to balance the finances without giving up sporting prominence. The coming hours will be decisive. From the player's circle, they recognize that the interest is firm and that the sports project offered is enticing. Cetré has become a fundamental piece for Estudiantes thanks to his speed, ability to get past opponents, and offensive contribution. The Colombian winger, one of the most unbalancing players on the team, would sign a long-term contract with the Brazilian club, which marks the seriousness of the Curitiba club's bet. Although Estudiantes does not rule out an eventual sale, the initial stance is firm: they will only consider a departure if the economic and sporting conditions are convenient for the club. The midfielder, a multiple champion with the 'albirroja' shirt, is considered a strategic piece both on and off the field. The operation is in its final stretch, with the parties polishing the last details of the negotiation, which would be carried out under the modality of a definitive transfer. Among advanced negotiations, formal offers, and strategic decisions, the 'Pincha' could see how part of its backbone is dismantled. The possible departure of two references in the same transfer window generates uncertainty among the fans and raises questions about the team's immediate future.
