Young Colombian central defender Jeison Murillo will continue his loan at La Palmas, even though his club Granada CF value his potential.

• By Heath Chesters    Follow @HeathFMResearch

Jeison Murillo is enjoying an excellent season in the Segunda for Las Palmas, playing  first-team football and continuing his growth as a player.

Spotted initially by the Udinese scouting team, he was quickly signed from Colombian side Deportivo Cali, then sent initially on loan to Granada CF. Featuring in the junior teams at Granada CF in 2010, they then made his move to Spain permanent. Understanding the need for Murillo to gain first-team experience, he was loaned out to Cádiz CF in the Segunda B4 during the 2011-2012 season, where he made 28 appearances and scored 3 goals.

With the theme of continued development in mind, Granada CF loaned Murillo to Segunda side Las Palmas for the 2012-2013 season. So far, his form in central defence has been widely praised. He’s played 16 games, scored a goal and has completed more minutes of play than any other member of the squad this season. His form has helped Las Palmas to 8th in Liga Adelante, where they sit just outside the play-off zone.

Given Murillo’s form for the Canary Island club, there had been fears that Granada CF might look to terminate his loan in the January transfer window, then incorporate him in their own first-team squad. Those fears were lifted by Granada CF President Quique Pina, speaking to newspaper La Provincia.

“It’s true that Granada CF could do with another central defender and Jeison Murillo would be idea, but I gave my commitment to Las Palmas President Miguel Ángel Ramírez, that the player will stay with them for the entirety of the season.” Affirmed Pina, who added that his “word” is important, especially between club presidents, whilst also coming “above” the wishes of sports directors or managers at the two clubs.

“It’s not our intention to recover the player. A firm commitment exists between myself and Ramírez, with whom I have an excellent relationship. There will be no change in this respect.” Confirmed the Granada CF President.

As Jeison Murillo continues to impress with Las Palmas, his growing confidence and level of performance will be a vital asset heading into the second-half of the season. Especially if the club is to continue with a push for promotion. Meanwhile, all the indications are there that the Colombian central defender is set for a bright future with his parent club, Granada CF.

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