Pumas UNAM are set to sign veteran Portuguese goalkeeper Rui Patrício after missing out on Keylor Navas, with the 37-year-old poised to provide leadership and depth in goal for the Apertura 2025 season.
After falling short in their pursuit of Keylor Navas, Pumas UNAM are now closing in on the signing of Rui Patrício, the seasoned Portuguese goalkeeper who helped Portugal to Euro 2016 glory and most recently featured at the Club World Cup with Al Ain.
According to reports from Superdeportivo, the 37-year-old goalkeeper is in advanced talks with Pumas and could be unveiled in the coming days. The deal would see him join for the remainder of the Apertura 2025 season, bringing his wealth of experience to a team still looking for leadership between the sticks.
Pumas were initially eyeing Keylor Navas to fill their goalkeeping void, but after negotiations with the Costa Rican legend fell through, the Mexican club quickly turned their focus to another proven shot-stopper with a world-class résumé.
Patrício played just six games for Atalanta last season and has seen his minutes reduced in recent years. However, his CV remains impressive:
- Euro 2016 winner with Portugal
- Over 100 caps for the national team
- Former No. 1 for Sporting CP, Wolverhampton, Roma, and Al Ain
- Featured in Club World Cup 2025, albeit conceding six goals in two matches
Despite concerns over his age and declining reflexes, Pumas are betting on his leadership, positioning, and vast experience to stabilise a team that has struggled defensively.
Pumas are in need of a calm, authoritative figure in goal. Their recent inconsistency in the goalkeeper position has made securing a reliable veteran a priority. While Rui Patrício may no longer be at his peak, he still commands respect and offers:
- Elite-level experience in European and international football
- A winning mentality cultivated over two decades of top-flight play
- Tactical discipline and communication—vital for a relatively young Pumas backline
Pumas are pushing to finalize the deal before their Matchday 2 clash against Pachuca this Sunday. Although it’s unlikely he’ll start so soon after arriving in Mexico City, the deal could be wrapped up just in time for the veteran to be included in the squad.
This move signals Pumas’ intention to compete seriously in the Apertura despite setbacks in the transfer market. Rui Patrício may not be the marquee name fans were dreaming of, but if the deal goes through, he could prove to be a low-risk, high-character addition—a steady presence capable of making key saves and mentoring the next generation.
