Valencia Basket has set its sights on Finnish forward Mikael Jantunen, now free after terminating his contract with Fenerbahçe, and could join before the transfer window closes.
Why is Valencia Basket tracking Jantunen?
Since Jaime Pradilla's departure, the club has lost several interior players: Key, Costello and Pradilla himself. The recent 90-105 loss to Real Madrid on 2026-05-22 and a 3-0-2 run (LLWWW) highlight the need for more presence in the paint. Jantunen, standing 2.04 m, blends defensive mobility with the ability to stretch the floor, traits that match Gonzalo Corbalán's vision.
What does the Finnish player bring?
During the 2024/25 season with Paris Basketball, he averaged 7.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, shooting 38.8 % from three. His stint at Fenerbahçe showed he can rotate in a high‑level environment, albeit with fewer minutes. International experience with Finland adds valuable defensive know‑how for EuroLeague games.
How would he fit the new roster?
Valencia has already bolstered the wing with Gonzalo Corbalán, TJ Shorts and Dylan Osetkowski, but the paint still has gaps. Jantunen could complement Osetkowski, offering a more versatile pick‑and‑roll and improving post defense. His off‑ball movement would allow guards to create space on the perimeter.
What steps will the executives take?
The coaching staff, led by head coach Sánchez‑Cabeza, will assess financial availability and tactical fit before making an official offer. If the club seals the deal, the Finn would be the first major signing after Mario Saint‑Supéry and the summer acquisitions.
What does this mean for the 2026‑27 season?
With Jantunen, Valencia Basket would gain an interior who can score from the outside and defend the paint, a need after Key and Costello left. The goal is to return to the ACB playoffs and become a EuroLeague contender, reducing reliance on perimeter shooters.
The club continues monitoring the situation while negotiating with Jantunen's agent and reviewing its budget. If all goes well, the announcement should arrive before the July transfer deadline.