Independiente Santa Fe: names of players who were planted to leave the club come to light

Independentiente Santa Fe has revealed names of players who have expressed their desire to leave the club amid ongoing speculation about potential transfers during its participation in the 2026-II season of the Liga BetPlay and the Copa Sudamericana. The team's recent performance has been mixed, with a 2-1 loss to Águilas Doradas in its domestic league opener and a more convincing 2-0 victory over Caracas FC in the South American tournament. This week, the club faces the return leg against the Venezuelan side in the knockout stages of the continental competition, adding pressure to an already tense situation within the squad. According to ESPN journalist Diana Rincón, several key players are reportedly seeking exits from the club. These individuals are currently part of the active roster and contribute significantly to the team’s efforts in both competitions. Their potential departure has raised concerns among fans and supporters, who fear the club might lose vital personnel at a critical stage of the season. Despite these reports, there have been no confirmed offers from other clubs yet, though discussions are underway regarding possible deals. Rincón specified that the players in question are primarily midfielders and Colombian nationals. Potential candidates include Daniel Torres, Yílmar Velásquez, Jhojan Torres, and Alexis Zapata. These players have been integral to the team's structure and performance, making their possible departure a significant concern for the coaching staff and management. Further details emerged after Rincón's initial report, with another journalist, Sebastián Heredia, revealing specific names linked to the transfer rumors. He noted that while Santa Fe requires these players, if Yílmar Velásquez or Ewill Murillo are unwilling to stay, the club must evaluate any incoming offers. However, he emphasized that nothing has been finalized yet. Additionally, Heredia pointed out that the coach should utilize these players effectively if the team aims to compete seriously in both tournaments. Despite the internal tensions, Yílmar Velásquez was included in the traveling squad for the upcoming match against Caracas FC in Venezuela. In contrast, Ewill Murillo did not appear on the official list released by the club’s communications department, raising further questions about his current status with the team. President Eduardo Méndez has not pursued additional signings for the second half of the year, maintaining almost the entire squad from the previous season. This includes experienced players such as Daniel Torres, Andrés Mosquera Marmolejo, and Hugo Rodallega, all over 35 years old. The only new addition so far has been defender Kevin Balanta, acquired from Club Santos Laguna and announced on July 14. Balanta has already made appearances in the Colombian league, including during the defeat to Águilas Doradas. No further transfer rumors have surfaced for Santa Fe, suggesting that the club will not bring in additional reinforcements for the remainder of the season. This decision leaves the team relying heavily on its existing core, despite the uncertainty surrounding some key players' futures.