Monterrey sign full-back Gerardo Arteaga from Belgian side Genk

Monterrey have confirmed the signing of Mexican national team full-back Gerardo Arteaga from Belgian first division side Genk.

Arteaga makes a return to Liga MX where he made a name for himself several years back with Santos Laguna. The left-back made headlines in his home country after breaking through at the first-team level in September 2016, where he managed one goal and four assists in 107 appearances while lifting the 2018 Clausura title with the Verdiblancos.

His impressive showings for Santos Laguna garnered interest from European sides, and he departed Mexico in August 2020 for Belgian giants Genk. Rayados shelled out a reported fee of $4.8m to get the deal over the line.

Arteaga enjoyed a successful three-and-a-half year spell with the four-time Jupiler Pro League winners, playing his part in the team's 2021 Belgian Cup triumph over Standard Liege. He notched five goals and 11 assists in 132 appearances during his time at Cegeka Arena.

"Gerardo, 25 years old, arrives at Monterrey on a permanent transfer and with a contract until December 2027," a club statement read.

"The player has demonstrated his quality at the club and National Team level, and contributes in defensive and attacking aspects, in addition to offering internal competition and tactical variants for the team."

Arteaga returns home with experience in all three of Europe's coveted competitions: the UEFA Champions, Europa and Conference League.

On the international stage, Arteaga has represented El Tri 21 times, scoring once while lifting the 2023 Gold Cup. The former Santos Laguna U20 player was also part of the Mexico squad that finished in third place in Group C at the 2022 World Cup.

The Zapopan, Mexico native joins a Rayados side that is in first place in the Clausura campaign with 10 points from 12 games played. Monterrey are set for Saturday night clash with Concacaf giants Club America on February 3 at the famed Estadio Azteca.