Marcos Gullon has left Villarreal for Racing Santander on a free transfer but the club have signed Alejandro Martinuccio from Fluminense.

Midfielder Gullon, 22, failed to make an impact on the Yellow Submarines first-team after making his debut in 2007.

The Spanish youth international has been allowed to leave for nothing and will stay at Racing until June 2013, with an option for another year.

“The Madrid native has signed a contract for the rest of the season, plus another, with an option to prolong his deal for an additional season,” Racing said.

Gullon is a direct replacement for Greece international Alexandros Tziolis, who has joined Monaco. Racing lie 17th in La Liga, one point above Villarreal, who are in the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, Villarreal have strengthened with the signing of Fluminense forward Martinuccio. The Argentinian is 24 and joins the club on loan.

Eurosport