Santi set for Albacete return

Albacete look set to further bolster their squad with the signing of Atletico Madrid's Santi.

The veteran stopper actually left Albacete in the 1994/95 season to join Atletico, but is now poised to complete a return journey.

Santi, 30, has yet to make an appearance for Los Rojiblancos this term, and Albacete director of sport Antonio Lopez Alfaro admits he would be an ideal signing for the club who will be battling against relegation in the second half of the season.

"We wanted to sign Santi last summer but it wasn't possible, then and now we consider him a footballer who could bring a lot to the club," stated Lopez Alfaro.

"Santi knows Albacete perfectly, but we mustn't jump the gun because nothing has been signed.

"There is only our interest and that of Santi to come, but the last decision is that of Atletico."

Given his lack of opportunities it seems likely that Atletico will consent to a deal, with the player likely to move on an initial loan deal to the Estadio Carlos Belmonte.

It will be the club's second signing of the transfer window with a deal for Uruguayan forward Nicolas Olivera close to completion.