River Plate has identified Chilean midfielder Erick Pulgar as a potential target for the 2027 transfer window, initiating a search for reinforcements to stabilize the central midfield position.
While the club is exploring options to strengthen its roster, any move for the 32-year-old currently playing for Flamengo is still in the preliminary stages.
Flamengo contract and market valuation
Pulgar, who arrived at the Rio de Janeiro-based club in 2022, recently extended his contract through December 2029, according to reports from La Página Millonaria. The midfielder was initially acquired from Fiorentina for approximately 2.8 million euros. While specialized platforms like Transfermarkt estimate his current market value at 4.5 million euros, his updated release clause is reportedly set at 10 million dollars, as noted by MDZ Online.
The financial barrier posed by the 10-million-dollar clause serves as a significant hurdle for any potential negotiations. However, Crónica reported that River Plate may look to negotiate a lower fee, placing Pulgar on a list of candidates that includes Guido Rodríguez and Santiago Longo. El Intransigente highlighted that while the player is a target, no formal offer or concrete management has taken place between the two clubs.
Performance during the 2026 season
Throughout the 2026 season, Pulgar maintained a consistent presence in the Flamengo squad under manager Leonardo Jardim, logging 3,322 minutes across 42 matches. His campaign included appearances in the Brasileirão, the Copa Libertadores, and various domestic cup competitions, during which he recorded three goals and received 13 yellow cards and one red card, La Página Millonaria detailed.
Since joining the club, he has participated in 178 matches, contributing to 10 titles, including the 2025 Brasileirão and two Copa Libertadores championships.
The interest in Pulgar reflects River Plate’s broader strategy to address recent inconsistencies in their midfield. According to El Intransigente, the club is prioritizing players with international experience who can provide tactical balance and ball recovery. Despite the persistent rumors circulating in Chile regarding a potential move, there has been no official confirmation regarding a change in the player’s status.
Status of the transfer pursuit
As the 2026 season concludes, the front office in Núñez remains in the early phases of roster planning for 2027. While Pulgar is a known commodity given his tenure in South American and European leagues—including stops in Italy and Turkey—the primary obstacle remains the contractual commitment he holds with his current employers. As of now, no formal negotiations have opened between River Plate and Flamengo regarding a transfer.
