Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace announced on Wednesday the signing of Argentine full‑back Mateo Del Blanco, 22, on a contract until 2031. The transfer, valued at €3 million, replaces Valentin Barco, who leaves after the World Cup.

Who is Mateo Del Blanco and where does he come from?

Del Blanco joins from Union Santa Fe, where he logged over a hundred top‑flight appearances. Standing 1.70 m tall, he has already shown great ability to cover the left flank and support the attack. His experience in Argentina places him among the continent’s most seasoned young full‑backs.

Why is this signing strategic for Racing?

The club needed an immediate replacement for Valentin Barco, who announced his departure in May. With Del Blanco, Racing retains an Argentine presence in the squad, alongside Joaquin Panichelli, currently rehabilitating after ACL surgery. The duo reinforces the South‑American "grinta" the club wants to exploit this season.

How does the summer transfer window shape up?

Del Blanco is the fourth summer addition. Prior signings include Diogo Sousa (Guimarães, Portugal), Benjamin Brantlind (IFK Gothenburg, Sweden) and Milosz Piekutowski (Jagiellonia Białystok, Poland). Lyon also showed interest, but the player chose BlueCo’s project and Racing’s vision.

What impact is expected this season?

Racing currently sits 8th in Ligue 1 with 53 points, recording 15 wins, 8 draws and 11 losses from 34 games, and a recent form of WWDLW. With 58 goals scored and 47 conceded (+11 goal difference), the team aims to solidify its position and close the 23‑point gap to leaders Paris Saint‑Germain. Del Blanco’s arrival could bring defensive stability and energize left‑side attacks.

What does the player say?

On Instagram, Del Blanco posted: "I don’t know where to start, but today it’s my turn to say goodbye to the club I love, the club that saw me grow, that trained me as a player and also made me a better person." His enthusiasm suggests a quick integration.

What’s next?

The 2026‑2027 schedule pits Racing against several top‑10 sides. If Del Blanco adapts swiftly, he could become a starter in the opening weeks, giving the coach more tactical options. The club hopes this reinforcement will help maintain positive momentum and chase European qualification.