Club Atlético River Plate has decided to cool its search for a central defender before the transfer window closes this Wednesday. The club's leadership will prioritize the continuity of the current squad.
The decision comes with the team sitting in 11th place in the Liga Profesional Argentina, with 7 points from 7 games. River Plate has 2 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, with a goal difference of -1 (7 scored, 8 conceded). The team is coming off a 3-2 win against Banfield on August 30, a result that leaves them 9 points behind leaders Argentinos JRS.
Why did the search cool down?
Difficulties in finding a suitable alternative led River Plate to reconsider its reinforcement plans. Marcelo Carroll, the club's sporting director, along with the coaching staff, assessed that maintaining the current defensive structure was the strongest option. Lucas Martínez Quarta will remain in the squad as a central piece of the defense.
The offer for Lautaro Rivero did not materialize, which directly influenced the decision. Probes for left-backs from the club's youth divisions also failed to convert into formal proposals. This situation forces the team to rely on its internal resources for upcoming commitments, including the match against Independiente Rivadavia on September 6th.
Is a market extension possible?
Yes, River Plate could request a 10-day extension due to Giorgio Costantini's injury, suffered on Monday. AFA regulations state that medical reports must be submitted within five business days after the injury. The association would make a decision on the extension 24 to 48 hours after receiving the documentation.
The club has not yet formalized the request but does not rule it out if they ultimately sell Lautaro Rivero. This sale could generate the necessary funds to activate a last-minute operation. Meanwhile, fans can follow the squad's evolution on our squad page.
What other names are linked to River?
Francisco Álvarez, a 26-year-old defender from San Juan currently playing for Argentinos, is on River's list of potential reinforcements. Boca Juniors also showed interest in the player, which could create competition for his signing.
River Plate has a history of strategic moves in the market. In March, the club acquired Tobías Ramírez from Núñez, an operation that helped that club balance its accounts after missing out on Phase 2 of the Copa Libertadores. These decisions reflect planning that goes beyond the immediate needs.
How does River approach its next match?
The team faces Independiente Rivadavia next September 6th at the Monumental, riding a positive streak of 3 wins and 2 draws in its last 5 matches. Their recent form is WWDDW and they are on a two-game winning run. The opponent sits sixth in the table, promising a competitive match you can follow on our fixtures calendar.
With the market closing this Wednesday at 18:00, River Plate is betting on the defensive stability that has allowed them to maintain a five-match unbeaten streak.
