River Plate sets sights on a player from Atlético

The 'Millonarios' want to open negotiations with Atlético to secure this player

Héctor Andreu | 4 Jul 2026 | 20.57
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River wants Thiago Almada / Marca
River wants Thiago Almada / Marca

La Liga
1 X 2
Atletico Madrid Malaga
16/08/26 17:00:00
1.25 5.50 11.00

Thiago Almada is on the move in the market during the World Cup, just when his role with Argentina has grown significantly. The Atlético de Madrid player has started in two out of three matches for the albiceleste, accumulating 153 minutes, a display that has reignited the interest of River Plate.

The Argentine club has been working on the operation for weeks and has already made contact to understand the conditions for his departure. There is no definitive agreement, but the proposed idea revolves around 20 million euros for 50% of the economic rights controlled by the rojiblanca entity.

Thiago Almada, a 20-million operation for River Plate

The formula is not simple, but it does set the path. River Plate would be willing to make a historic investment to bring in Thiago Almada, a 25-year-old player, world champion with Argentina, and under contract at the Metropolitano until 2030.

The player himself will have a significant influence on the decision. Almada is not ruling out a return to Argentine football but knows that his strong World Cup performance could open up opportunities in Europe. Therefore, negotiations may not accelerate until Argentina's participation ends.

The second point revolves around Atlético de Madrid. The club does not consider him indispensable, but neither does it want to undersell an asset that still has room for growth. His market value is close to 15 million euros, although the operation is being considered at a higher figure.

Atlético de Madrid would not view his departure as traumatic

The potential departure of Thiago Almada would come in a busy summer for the rojiblanco team. The sports management is working on the arrival of Kang-in Lee, keeping open the possibility of Nico González staying and aiming to balance Simeone's squad before the start of LaLiga.

In this scenario, Almada emerges as one of the less prominent players during the last season. His talent is unquestionable, but his adaptation to the Spanish competitive pace has not been as swift as expected, and the Argentine coach has found other offensive solutions.

Therefore, his departure could fit the plan. For Atleti, receiving a sum close to 20 million euros for their share of the rights would free up space and reinforce other positions. For the player, it would mean swapping uncertain minutes for a more central role.

Thiago Almada liked by River Plate

LaLiga loses focus for a world champion

The big question lies in Thiago Almada's final desire. Returning to Argentina with River Plate would grant him immediate prominence, media weight, and an evident emotional connection. However, leaving LaLiga at just 25 years old could also be seen as a risky move.

River has shown its intention to build a strong project. The arrivals of players with experience in Spain and the presence of Eduardo Coudet on the bench bolster the idea of competing with significant names. Almada would fit as a differential piece to break lines.

A transfer pending the World Cup

For now, everything seems to point to a paused operation. The World Cup has raised the player's profile and could also raise the cost of any movement. If Argentina progresses and Almada keeps getting minutes, his valuation may rise just as River tries to secure a significant deal.

Atlético de Madrid will wait without rushing, aware that the market may bring more suitors. Thiago Almada has a clear path with the Millonario, but his future will depend on post-World Cup events, incoming offers, and whether he chooses to prioritize immediate playing time or continue striving to establish himself in Europe.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, River Plate se fija en un futbolista del Atlético