Juanfran Funes stated that Málaga is considering signing a replacement for the injured 25-year-old Spanish winger Julen Lobete. Funes said that the important thing is for someone to come who can help the current players and that this is not easy at the moment. Lobete joined Málaga on August 2, 2024, and his contract is set to expire in June 2027. He has been capped five times for the Spain U21 team, scoring three goals. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €1.20m.