Bad news for Boca: Marino Hinestroza's transfer might be on hold for an unusual reason

Boca began its postseason break with a clear premise: to speed up the transfer market in order to secure reinforcements before the 2026 Copa Libertadores. Although the name chosen to open the list was Marino Hinestroza, the Colombian's arrival is still hanging in the air.

A few days ago, the 23-year-old forward fueled expectations with an Instagram post in blue and yellow, suggesting that his arrival could be finalized "within hours." However, the week went by without confirmations, without a date for a medical examination, and without a signature.

In that regard, from Colombia they are pointing to a single party responsible: Atlético Nacional. According to reports in the coffee-growing country, the transfer is on hold because of unpaid wages that the Medellín club owes the footballer, which reportedly created an unexpected standoff. The board wants Hinestroza to forgo part of the amount owed in order to clear the way for his departure, thus avoiding an immediate payment that, they claim, would deal a severe financial blow.

Local media are going further and are talking about a "dirty game" in the negotiation, pointing out that small clauses in the document were allegedly modified in order to delay the process and pressure the player to give up the amount he is claiming.

Although those at Brandsen 805 understand the reason for the delay and are still waiting for his arrival, they remain eager to add him to preseason as soon as possible, which will begin next Friday, January 2, at the Ezeiza training complex, and they are confident that the situation will be solved in the coming hours so they can officially present him as the club's first official signing.

Meanwhile, the player is standing firm and reportedly hasn't given in to the demand that he give up his unpaid wages. Xeneize, for now, is waiting. The saga, which seemed like it would last only one episode, now promises to stretch on for a few more days.