On Friday evening (local time), after a strong performance at the U17 World Cup in the Trofeo de Campeones (2-0), top talent Claudio Echeverri not only celebrated his starting debut for CA River Plate, but also the second title of the season – and then left burst a bomb. “I will not extend my contract,” said the 17-year-old, who is tied to the Argentine champions until the end of 2024. “But I’ll stay for a year or six months.”
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The race among Europe’s top clubs for Echeverri’s services has long been in full swing. It is clear that the offensive talent does not want to leave River Plate, where he has played since he was 11, for free. So a decision on the next step in Echeverri’s career is likely to be made in January. According to consistent media reports, everything currently points to Manchester City.
The “Citizens” are in pole position, it is said in “TyC Sports“. Chelsea FC is also very interested, but a move to FC Barcelona is virtually impossible due to the Financial Fair Play regulations. Man City should have an advantage, not least due to the good relations with River Plate since the transfer of Julián Álvarez (23) in January 2022. A similar model appears to be being planned.
Loud “Diario OléThe Skyblues are preparing an offer that roughly corresponds to Echeverri’s release clause of 25 million euros and, like Álvarez, should include a loan back to River Plate for half a year or a full year. Man City is in constant communication with the player’s environment. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also writes that another meeting with River Plate has already been scheduled to clarify the final details and finalize the deal.
After the success in the Trofeo de Campeones, club president Jorge Brito didn’t let Echeverri’s personnel look into his cards. “He was a little upset about what he said,” Brito explained. “Maybe in the euphoria of the cheers he said something that he didn’t mean.” The 44-year-old also emphasized the good relationship with Echeverri’s advisors. “There are still 13 months until his contract expires. Between now and January 10th we have to decide. Claudio told me again that he wants to be successful at River. His agent will advocate for the player and we will advocate for the club. We will do something that must be very good for the club and for the player.”
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Agustin Giay – San Lorenzo | Market value: €8 million
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