After the departure of Isco (Real Madrid), Toulalan (AS Monaco) and Joaquin (Fiorentina), Malaga is looking forward to fill the void left by these players in its between-Thurs. Also, the Andalusian club has hooked on its list the name of Ibrahim Afellay.

Back from a loan to Schalke 04, the midfielder of FC Barcelona is much appreciated by the new coach of Malaga, Brend Schuster. Absent from the ground since his meniscus injury, the Dutchman of Moroccan origin was not against a transfer. The Dutch international would gain in playing time, important in the context of the World Cup.

The two sides have even started negotiations.

Ibrahim Afellay (27) joined FC Barcelona in January 2011, but he has never been able to get imposed in the Blaugrana.