Club Atlético River Plate sign five reinforcements ahead of World Cup
Club Atlético River Plate has confirmed five signings to bolster Marcelo Gallardo’s squad ahead of the World Cup. Journalist Gustavo Yarroch revealed the new players joining the Buenos Aires-based club: Nicolás Otamendi, Mauro Arambarri, Giovanni González, Lucas Beltrán, and Rafael Santos Borré. The team is also pursuing Ángel Correa and Thiago Almada, with both deals potentially closing soon.
The return of Lucas Beltrán is one of the most notable moves. The striker, who played for River between 2018 and 2021, rejoins the club for $7.5 million for half of his rights. Uruguayan left-back Giovanni González arrived from Krasnodar for $800,000, while midfielder Mauro Arambarri joins from Getafe to strengthen the engine room.
Breakdown of the confirmed signings
Rafael Santos Borré is another reinforcement set to join the squad. The Paraguayan forward, who left Inter de Porto Alegre in 2024, returns to the club where he made his professional debut. His signing cost $2.5 million, Yarroch confirmed. Veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi also rejoined the squad after his stint at Benfica, completing the quintet of official signings so far.
Yarroch also revealed that Ángel Correa remains a top target. River is $2 million short of Tigres’ asking price to finalize his move. Argentine playmaker Thiago Almada, currently at Atlanta United, is another priority, though his deal isn’t yet settled.
What’s next for Club Atlético River Plate?
With five reinforcements already in the dressing room, the club aims to wrap up Ángel Correa’s transfer before Monday. The Argentine, who plays for Tigres, is key to Chacho Coudet’s attacking plans. Rafael Santos Borré is also expected to complete his arrival in the coming days, joining a squad that already boasts over 20 players.
The technical staff is also eyeing a center-back to cover for Esequiel Barco, who left in June. Meanwhile, players are already training in Spain during pre-season, where the team prepares for the new Argentine Primera División campaign.
Fan reactions and expectations at Núñez
The signings have sparked excitement among Club Atlético River Plate supporters. Lucas Beltrán, in particular, is seen as a high-potential addition, while Mauro Arambarri is expected to shore up the midfield. Giovanni González, meanwhile, arrives as an offensive-minded full-back, a profile the team needed.
The club continues working in the transfer market to finalize pending deals. Ángel Correa could be next, though the process isn’t yet done. For now, players are adapting to the squad’s rhythm as River eyes a strong title challenge in the new season.
