Santino Andino has officially been unveiled as a new signing for Panathinaikos, bringing an end to a long transfer saga that also involved interest from Argentina. The Greek club confirmed the deal on Friday, announcing the arrival of the 20-year-old forward from Godoy Cruz in a transfer valued at €10.2 million for 75% of his rights, the highest sale in the club’s history.
Panathinaikos revealed Andino through a video shared on social media under the phrase “Storm alert,” using references to Argentine culture such as mate, empanadas, and Buenos Aires landmarks. Shortly after, Godoy Cruz published a farewell message for the academy product, highlighting his development, commitment, and impact at the club before his move to Europe.
Andino’s transfer comes after a difficult 2025 season for Godoy Cruz, which ended in relegation to the Primera Nacional. Despite the team’s struggles, the winger emerged as one of its standout performers, quickly earning a starting role and becoming an important attacking option in both domestic competition and the Copa Sudamericana. Godoy Cruz were eliminated in the round of 16 of the continental tournament, but Andino’s performances drew consistent attention.
At international level, Andino was also part of Argentina’s squad for the FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Chile in September and October. Argentina finished as runners-up after losing the final to Morocco, and Andino logged significant minutes throughout the tournament. One of his most memorable moments came in the group stage against Australia, where he scored in a 4-1 win that secured qualification to the knockout rounds.
Across all competitions with Godoy Cruz, Andino made 44 appearances, including 36 in the domestic league and eight in the Copa Sudamericana, scoring nine goals. He accumulated over 2,000 minutes of playing time and started more than 25 matches, numbers that reinforced his status as one of the most promising young attackers in Argentine football.
Following Godoy Cruz’s relegation, several clubs showed interest in Andino. Boca Juniors were linked mainly through informal inquiries, while River Plate made concrete attempts to sign him. Negotiations with River, however, failed to progress due to financial conditions set by Godoy Cruz. The talks ended when Panathinaikos agreed to meet the €10.2 million valuation.
The transfer surpasses Godoy Cruz’s previous record sale, set in 2022 with the move of Ezequiel Bullaude to Feyenoord for a fee close to €7 million. For Andino, the deal marks his first experience in European football.
In Greece, the Argentine forward will be coached by Rafa Benítez, a manager with extensive experience at top clubs such as Real Madrid and Liverpool.
