Liga MX champions Deportivo Toluca FC have made their first major move of the summer by signing Argentine midfielder Nicolás Castro from Spanish club Elche CF. The 24-year-old joins the Red Devils on a four-year deal, with the transfer fee reported to be around €5 million, potentially rising to €7 million with add-ons.
The transfer signals Toluca’s intention to build on their Clausura 2025 title and establish long-term dominance in Mexican football.
🧠 A Rising Talent from Argentina
Castro began his career with Newell’s Old Boys and quickly gained attention for his technique, vision, and creativity in midfield. After a stint in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt, he was loaned to Elche, where he flourished. During the 2024/25 season, he registered 6 goals and 9 assists, playing a vital role in helping Elche secure promotion to La Liga.
Tall, elegant, and intelligent on the ball, Castro specializes as an attacking midfielder who can control tempo, thread passes, and contribute to goals. His versatility makes him an ideal fit for Toluca’s attacking style.
🔴 A Statement of Intent
Castro’s arrival comes just weeks after Toluca lifted their first league title in 15 years, defeating Club América 2-0 in the Clausura final. Under coach Antonio “Turco” Mohamed, the team has rediscovered its winning mentality—and Castro is expected to be a central figure in continuing that success.
“We don’t just want to defend our title—we want to grow stronger,” said Mohamed. “Nicolás gives us a new dimension in the midfield.”
Reports suggest that Mohamed personally requested Castro’s signing, viewing him as a key creative force to complement the likes of Jesús Angulo, Marcel Ruiz, and Maximiliano Araújo.
⚽ The Role and Expectations
Castro is expected to play as a number 10 or roaming midfielder in Mohamed’s 4-2-3-1 system. His arrival adds creativity and depth, especially important with a busy calendar that includes the Campeón de Campeones match against Club América on July 20 and a potential CONCACAF Champions Cup campaign.
🔥 Fan Reaction and Club Vision
Fans have embraced the new signing with open arms. The hashtag #BienvenidoCastro trended on social media, and a group of supporters welcomed him at the Nemesio Diez Stadium with chants and flares.
“You’re not just joining a club—you’re becoming part of a family,” wrote Toluca’s fan group La Banda del Rojo.
Club president Francisco Suinaga also emphasized the long-term vision:
“We’re building more than a team—we’re building an identity. Nicolás fits our philosophy perfectly.”
🚀 What’s Next?
Castro will begin preseason training in early July and is likely to make his debut in the Campeón de Campeones match. With high expectations and strong support behind him, his arrival could mark the beginning of a new era for Toluca.
