Villarreal CF has set its sights on Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill, 26, after his World Cup showing and his firm hold on the San Lorenzo number one spot. The yellow club, sitting 3rd in La Liga with 72 pts (22 W‑6 D‑10 L) and trailing leaders Barcelona by 22 points, is looking to shore up the goal area before the transfer window shuts.
Who is Orlando Gill and why is he attracting interest?
Gill, standing 1.96 m, is praised for his composure and aerial command. Since joining San Lorenzo he has been an undisputed starter, playing over 30 matches while conceding no more than two goals per game. His role with Paraguay at the last World Cup boosted his market value and gave him international experience few peers share.
What has Villarreal said about a possible signing?
SER Deportivos Castellón collaborator Ángel García reports that Villarreal’s sporting department has opened informal talks to gauge Gill’s contract situation. No formal bid has been announced yet, but the club has already sent a scouting report highlighting his ability to handle pressure and his growth potential.
How would Gill fit into the current squad?
Current first‑choice keeper Stole Dimitrievski has posted an uneven season, averaging 1.30 goals against per match. Adding Gill would create direct competition and let manager Quique Setién rotate the two keepers according to fixture congestion. Gill’s height would also strengthen the team’s defense on set‑pieces and long balls.
What does this move mean for the campaign?
If Villarreal secures the deal before 31 August, they will have a World‑Cup‑experienced goalkeeper for the final 12 league games, where the 22‑point gap with Barcelona still looms. Better goalkeeping could help reduce the 46 goals conceded so far; the side enjoys a +26 goal difference this season.
What’s the next step?
The club expects a response from San Lorenzo and Gill’s agent in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the coaching staff continues to assess internal options and other market targets. The pressure to climb the table and close the gap with Barcelona makes any activity in goalkeeping a decisive factor.
