After a frustrating transfer window of rumour and missed opportunities for Independiente it would appear they are finally closing in on the signing of Uruguay international, Cristian ‘Cebolla’ Rodríguez. A deal had reportedly already been agreed with the 29-year-old but with a year left on his deal with Atlético Madrid there was still some work to do before concluding the transfer. However, it is understood that Los Colchoneros have released Cebolla from the contract and he will now carry out a medical before signing a two-year deal with Independiente.

After a disappointing first half to the season and the subsequent appointment of Mauricio Pellegrino as manager, Independiente required a lift and although it took longer than expected, El Rojo have finally done their business. Rodríguez is set to be the fifth reinforcement and represents a significant coup given that he is returning after a successful career in Europe and is still part of the Uruguay side.

Independiente must now off-load Colombian striker José Valencia to make room in their squad for another foreign player but with Atlético Rafaela and Belgrano interested that does not appear to be a problem.

The capture of Rodríguez should be announced either today or tomorrow and Pellegrino has already spoken of his desire to incorporate this latest signing into his side with the ultimate goal of getting Independiente back into the Copa Libertadores.

Pellegrino has already begun using a 4-4-2 but the position of left midfield has already proved problematic with Emiliano Papa most recently playing there. Cebolla would be a substantial upgrade and with the in-form Lucas Albertengo up front with his old striker-partner Diego Vera, El Rojo will be a much stronger outfit on paper.

Cebolla will sign a two-year contract with the intention of returning to Uruguayan side Peñarol, to end his career where it began.

One player that Pellegrino is still unlikely to work with is Federico Mancuello, who remains training with the club but is waiting for a move abroad. Ukrainian side, Dnipro are closest and are said to be putting together a formal offer in the region of €5 million.