Giuliano Galoppo, the Club Atlético River Plate midfielder, could reverse his initial stance and accept a loan move to MLS side Atlanta United. An agreement between the clubs is in place and now hinges on the player's decision.
River Plate is navigating a difficult period in the Liga Profesional Argentina, sitting 14th with just 4 points from six games. Their record stands at one win, one draw, and four losses, having scored 4 goals and conceded 6. The team is coming off a 2-2 draw with Vélez Sarsfield on August 23rd and is on a four-match unbeaten run, yet trails leaders Argentinos Juniors by 9 points. Their next fixture is away to Banfield on August 30th.
What is the Atlanta United offer?
The deal between River Plate and Atlanta United is for a ten-month loan. The operation includes a purchase option for the American club at the end of the period. Galoppo had initially turned down North American options, preferring a different destination, but is now reconsidering his position given the concrete MLS proposal. If the move goes through, the Argentine would link up with his former teammate Paulo Díaz, who terminated his contract with River and is a new signing for Atlanta United.
Other options have emerged for the player. Rosario Central, Italy's Cagliari, Spain's Racing de Santander, and several Brazilian Serie A clubs have shown interest. However, the firmest offer in recent hours comes from Major League Soccer. The transfer window is nearing its close, adding pressure to the decision.
What has been Galoppo's time at River Plate like?
Giuliano Galoppo arrived at River Plate at the start of last year, initially on loan. The club later exercised an option to buy 50% of his economic rights for three million dollars. In total, he played 48 official matches for the Millionaires, scoring 8 goals and providing 1 assist. He never established himself as an undisputed starter.
His relationship with the fans deteriorated after missing a penalty in the 2025 Copa Argentina semifinal against Independiente Rivadavia. He added another missed spot-kick in the first half of this year against San Lorenzo. He is currently suspended by FIFA due to a debt with his former agent. According to Ole, "la deuda asciende a una suma cercana a los 530 mil dólares" (the debt amounts to a sum close to 530 thousand dollars) from claimed economic differences. This suspension prevents him from playing official matches for any team.
When could his situation be resolved?
The process to lift Galoppo's suspension is reportedly nearing completion. He is expected to receive clearance to compete professionally again during this semester, once the debt is settled or an agreement is reached. This circumstance is key for any transfer movement.
Galoppo is not the only player with an uncertain future in the River Plate squad. Kendry Páez, Fabricio Bustos, and Matías Viña are also considered marginalized. Matías Galarza Fonda has already left for Paraguay with a special permit and is wanted by Olimpia. The team's situation, which can be reviewed on our squad page, requires quick resolutions.
What does this mean for River Plate?
Galoppo's potential departure would free up a space in a squad looking to improve its performance in the league. The team urgently needs to start picking up points to climb the table, as seen in our standings. A loan deal with a purchase option would represent an orderly exit for a player who hasn't found consistency. Everything depends on the resolution of his personal case with FIFA and his final willingness to try his luck in the United States.
