BUENOS AIRES – River Plate manager Eduardo Coudet has identified Torino striker Giovanni Simeone as his top target to bolster the attack ahead of a potential push to qualify for the 2027 Copa Libertadores. The Argentine club, under Coudet’s leadership, is actively planning for the upcoming transfer window, aiming to strengthen the squad and regain a foothold in South America’s premier club competition.
Reports from Italy and Argentina confirm River’s strong interest in Simeone, the 30-year-old son of Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone. Coudet views the experienced forward as a crucial addition, believing his playing style would seamlessly integrate into River’s attacking setup. The pursuit of Simeone underscores River’s ambition to compete at the highest level once again.
Simeone’s Current Form and Contract Situation
Currently on loan at Torino from Napoli, Simeone has been a consistent performer in Serie A. He has tallied 7 goals in 23 matches this season, establishing himself as the fourth-highest scoring Argentine in the Italian league, trailing only Lautaro Martínez, Nico Paz, and Mateo Pellegrino. His goal-scoring record has clearly caught the attention of Coudet, who previously managed Simeone at Alavés.
Simeone’s contract with Torino is set to expire in June of this year, requiring him to return to Napoli, where his deal extends through mid-2028. This situation presents a potential opportunity for River Plate to negotiate a transfer, though the financial implications, estimated between $8 to $10 million, will need to be addressed. Fabrizio Romano, a well-known transfer expert, reported River’s interest, labeling Simeone a “priority absolute” for Coudet.
Why Simeone Fits Coudet’s System
Coudet’s arrival at River Plate has already signaled a desire for tactical adjustments and squad reinforcement. Having previously worked with Simeone, the coach is familiar with the player’s strengths and believes he can provide a different dimension to River’s attack. While not a traditionally towering center forward – standing at 1.80 meters – Simeone is described as an “area center forward,” capable of finding space and finishing chances effectively.
Currently, River Plate lacks a forward with Simeone’s specific characteristics. The addition of a proven goalscorer like Simeone could significantly improve River’s attacking output and provide a focal point for their offensive plays. The club is hoping to capitalize on Simeone’s experience in European football to elevate their performance in domestic and continental competitions.
River Plate’s Recent Form and Upcoming Fixtures
Coudet began his tenure at River Plate with a narrow 2-1 victory against Huracán. While the performance wasn’t flawless, the win provided a positive start to his leadership. River Plate is currently preparing for a match against Sarmiento, scheduled for March 15th at El Monumental stadium.
For the match against Sarmiento, Coudet is expected to field a starting lineup featuring Santiago Beltrán in goal, with Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Lautaro Rivero, and Matías Viña forming the defense. The midfield will likely consist of Fausto Vera and Aníbal Moreno, supporting an attacking trio of Ian Subiabre, Joaquín Freitas, and Tomás Galván. Notably, Sebastián Driussi is unavailable due to a pubalgia injury sustained during the previous match.
Simeone’s History and Potential Impact
Giovanni Simeone began his career in River Plate’s youth system, making his debut in Argentina’s Primera División in 2013 under manager Ramón Díaz. Since then, he has gained extensive experience in Italian football, playing for Genoa, Fiorentina, Cagliari, Hellas Verona, and Napoli. He also has six appearances for the Argentine National Team, scoring one goal.
His return to River Plate would be a significant homecoming, potentially reigniting his career and providing a much-needed boost to the club’s attacking options. The prospect of playing under Coudet once again, combined with the opportunity to compete for a Copa Libertadores berth, could be a compelling factor in Simeone’s decision.
The transfer window opens in July, and River Plate is expected to move quickly to secure Simeone’s services. The club’s ambition to return to the Copa Libertadores hinges, in part, on adding a player of Simeone’s caliber to their squad. The coming months will be crucial as River Plate aims to rebuild its squad and challenge for continental glory.
River Plate will next face Sarmiento on March 15th at El Monumental. Fans will be eager to see how Coudet’s team performs and whether the club can make significant progress in securing Simeone’s transfer in the coming months.
