River Plate and Fiorentina Reach Agreement for Lucas Beltrán, Player Decision Pending

River Plate and Italian club Fiorentina have reportedly reached an agreement for the loan of striker Lucas Beltrán, a move that could see the player return to Argentine football. However, the final decision rests with the 25-year-old forward, who is yet to confirm his return.

Pre-season Preparations Underway

River Plate has commenced its pre-season training in Alicante, Spain, with 18 players participating. Uruguayan midfielder Mauro Arambarri, a new signing from Getafe, is currently the sole reinforcement. Manager Eduardo Coudet is keen to bolster the squad further, with Beltrán identified as a key target.

The proposed deal involves River Plate paying €500,000 for a loan of Beltrán, with an obligation to buy 55% of his rights for €6.7 million. This agreement comes after Beltrán’s recent spell on loan at Valencia, where he scored 3 goals in 30 appearances. His time at Fiorentina saw him score 16 goals in 98 matches, though the Italian club reportedly accepted the new loan due to a full attacking roster.

Player’s Dilemma

Despite expressing a desire to return to River Plate in previous interviews, Beltrán is reportedly still contemplating his options. Sources close to the player suggest he believes he has ample time to return to Argentina given his age and career trajectory. His previous move to Europe three seasons ago involved an investment of €12.5 million plus objectives.

Beltrán, who came through River Plate’s youth academy, has previously spoken of his dreams of winning the Copa Libertadores and captaining the club. His potential return is seen by many as a significant boost for the team’s aspirations.

Other Transfer Targets

River Plate is also reportedly interested in forwards Ángel Correa and Giovanni Simeone, though negotiations for these players have stalled due to demands from Tigres UANL and Torino, respectively. Federico Fattori is also a target, but a move to Talleres seems more likely.

Squad Movements

Several players departed Buenos Aires for Spain in two groups, travelling by commercial flights. The team will be based at La Finca Resort in Algorfa, a venue previously used by the Argentine national team. A friendly match against Flamengo is scheduled for July 3rd in Portugal.

Players who did not travel with the initial group include Paulo Díaz, Maximiliano Meza, Germán Pezzella, Fabricio Bustos, Alex Woiski, Maximiliano Salas, Giuliano Galoppo, Ian Subiabre, and Santiago Lencina, who are expected to join the squad later. Andrés Herrera is also in advanced negotiations for a permanent transfer. Matías Galarza Fonda and Kevin Castaño are set to rejoin the group after their World Cup commitments. Kendry Páez and Matías Viña have had their contracts rescinded.

Key facts

The potential return of Lucas Beltrán would undoubtedly excite River Plate fans, who remember his contributions to the team. His decision will be closely watched as it could significantly impact the club’s attacking options for the upcoming season.

Source: Clarin Deportes – River acordó con Fiorentina por Beltrán, pero el delantero aún no definió su regreso (https://www.clarin.com/deportes/river-acordo-fiorentina-beltran-delantero-definio-regreso_0_lgSVv02UqR.html)