Levante have completed the signing of Dani Requena on a one-year loan deal from Villarreal, with a €5 million buy option that could be triggered in June 2027. The Valencian club, currently 16th in La Liga with 42 points and a -14 goal difference, suffered a 1-2 loss to Sheffield United on July 17, 2026, and now turns to the young midfielder to bolster their survival push. Villarreal retains first-option rights to re-sign Requena in 2028 and 2029, with the fee rising by June 2029.

What happened with Requena’s move?

Dani Requena, a Granada-born midfielder, joined Córdoba CF on loan from Villarreal in the 25-26 season. Under manager Iván Ania, he became a cornerstone in midfield, playing 36 matches -32 as a starter- and scoring twice. His consistency and leadership earned him a surprise call-up to Spain’s under-21 squad, a first for a Córdoba player in 35 years.

The loan to Levante follows that breakthrough campaign. The club, on a three-game losing streak (LLLWW in their last five), needs fresh legs in midfield. Villarreal, still holding his rights, has structured the deal with a €5 million buy clause in 2027 and first-option buybacks in 2028 and 2029, with the fee escalating by mid-2029.

Why does this signing matter for Levante?

Requena arrives as Levante battles relegation, having scored 47 goals but conceded 61 this season, with a recent record of two wins and three losses in their last five games. The club needs midfield stability, and Requena brings Hypermotion experience plus the ability to dictate play. If Levante triggers the buy clause, they’ll pay Villarreal €5 million, with Córdoba CF receiving a percentage due to training compensation from his 25-26 stint.

Villarreal’s decision to loan rather than sell outright signals faith in his growth. The 23-year-old international adds depth and youth to a squad 52 points behind Barcelona, fighting to stay clear of the drop zone.

What’s next for Dani Requena?

Requena will compete for minutes in Levante’s midfield under pressure to secure top-flight status. Villarreal will track his progress, with buyback clauses active in 2028 and 2029. If Levante exercises the €5 million option in 2027, he could become a long-term asset.

For the club, his arrival comes at a critical juncture. With a -14 goal difference and three straight defeats, Levante needs points to distance themselves from relegation. Requena’s arrival is a bet on his ability to steady the ship in midfield, where the club has struggled to find rhythm this season 26-27.