Rafa Benítez has recommended the acquisition of Javi López. Panathinaikos's plan is for Javi López to join on an initial loan with a purchase option for the summer. Reports state that while Real Sociedad was initially open to loaning Javi López, the club refuses to include a purchase option, which has resulted in Panathinaikos examining new circumstances and a current lack of agreement.

Panathinaikos's pursuit of Javi López for the left-back position has apparently stalled, with the club now moving on to another target. The 23-year-old Spaniard, who is currently on loan at Oviedo from Real Sociedad, was one of several names the club had on their list from the beginning. With the deal not progressing, Panathinaikos has apparently identified an alternative player for the left side of their defense. López's contract with Real Sociedad is valid until June 2030. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is €5.00m. The defender has five caps for the Spain U21 team and has made 8 appearances in LaLiga this season. Real Betis and Elche have also been linked with him in the past.