With a view to the 2026 summer transfer window, Nicolás Tagliafico, Paulo Fonseca’s executive at OL, is being closely targeted by River Plate, the South American giant.
River Plate, a South American giant with 38 Argentine championship titles, is already preparing for the post-World Cup transfer window and Marcelo Gallardo has a specific target: Nicolás Tagliafico, the left back of OL and Argentinian international. According to information reported by River Noticias, Gallardo wants to repatriate Tagliafico from June 2026, while the Argentinian is still under contract until 2027.
A perfect profile for Gallardo
Tagliafico, with his experience in Europe with Ajax Amsterdam then Lyon, represents a strategic profile for Gallardo. His leadership, his control of the ball and his defensive solidity are all assets that the Argentine coach is looking for to consolidate his young and ambitious squad.
“He is a player who can bring experience and maturity to our defense, while remaining efficient at the highest level,” explain sources close to the club.
Tagliafico’s contractual situation makes this transfer plausible but delicate. His contract with Lyon expires in June 2027, which would lead River to have to pay a transfer fee for a player estimated at 5 million by Transfermarkt. However, other European clubs – notably in La Liga and the Premier League – are keeping a close eye on the player, which could complicate negotiations.
An ambitious post-World Cup strategy
River Plate is looking to strengthen its squad for upcoming competitions and Gallardo is banking on experience combined with youth. Tagliafico fits perfectly into this strategy, as do other local and international avenues explored by the club, notably Argentine players playing in other South American championships.
The return of an experienced European player to River illustrates the club’s ability to attract proven talent while preparing the next generation for the future. River Plate therefore seems ready to enter into negotiations to recover its former international, and the 2026 summer transfer window could well come alive around this strategic issue.
