Tarragona turns down Gimnasia and signs with Unión: “I’m coming home”

In a surprise twist during Argentina’s transfer window, Cristian Tarragona, the 34-year-old striker from Santa Fe, has rejected a return to Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata and instead signed with Unión de Santa Fe — the club he has supported since childhood. The decision, made late last night, closes the door on a possible comeback to “El Lobo”, where Tarragona had been a key player during the 2022–2023 seasons with 20 goals in 58 appearances.

Gimnasia had launched a strong effort to bring him back, banking on his recent successful stint and offering a solid sporting project. However, Tarragona opted for Unión’s proposal, which prioritized emotional ties and the chance to return to his hometown. Under head coach Leonardo Madelón, who previously coached him at Gimnasia, the Tatengue made a personal and compelling pitch.

Now a free agent after parting ways with Talleres de Córdoba, Tarragona is set to sign with Unión until December 2026. The news has been met with mixed reactions: in Santa Fe, fans are thrilled by the arrival of an experienced forward who could rejuvenate the team’s attack; in La Plata, however, there's disappointment over the loss of a long-desired reinforcement.

With Tarragona off the table, Gimnasia must urgently find a new striker to bolster their front line ahead of the next stretch of the season.