Monterrey is interested in signing 26-year-old Mexican midfielder Erik Lira from Cruz Azul and is willing to pay his release clause, reportedly valued at 20 million USD (approximately €18.5 million), to acquire him for the next tournament. In an exclusive interview with RÉCORD, Cruz Azul coach Joel Huiqui commented on the potential move. He stated that while a transfer within Liga MX would not represent a career setback for the player, he would personally like to see Lira fulfill his dream of playing in Europe. Several European clubs, including Girona, Feyenoord, and Ajax, have recently been linked with the player. Huiqui confirmed that Lira is currently a Cruz Azul player and that the team needs him. Lira, who has 29 caps for Mexico, joined Cruz Azul in January 2022 and has a contract until 2029. His current market value is €12.00m, according to Transfermarkt.