Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Sun 19 April 2026 11:10, UK

Leeds United caused concern among River Plate’s management after enquiring about defender Lautaro Rivero.

According to El Intrasigente on 17 April, the Whites have been closely following the centre-back and made concrete approaches to the South American club about him.

The news outlet reports that the Buenos Aires club were in panic and believed it would be difficult to keep the Argentina international amid increasing interest.

However, River Plate reacted almost immediately, extending the 22-year-old’s contract until December 2029 with an £87million release clause, complicating any negotiations for the West Yorkshire outfit.

Talks around Rivero’s move to Elland Road have come to a halt for now, but it remains to be seen what the future holds for him.

Lautaro Rivero destined for great things amid Leeds United interest

Lautaro Rivero has proven himself at River Plate in recent months, arguably being one of their best players so far this season.

In 13 appearances in all competitions for the Argentine side, the centre-back has kept five clean sheets and recorded 1.2 interceptions, 1.4 tackles, 3.5 ball recoveries and 4.5 clearances per game, as per Sofascore.

The defender seems perfect for the physicality of the Premier League, winning 69 per cent of his aerial duels and has shown quality on the ball, with an 83 per cent dribble success rate and 86 per cent passing accuracy.

Rivero has shown a rash side, picking up five yellow cards and committing one tackle per game, but there’s no denying his quality, with a bright future surely ahead of him.

Paraag Marathe can show intent with Lautaro Rovero deal at Elland Road

Rivero’s release clause hasn’t deterred Leeds, and there’s a belief that River Plate may lower their price down the line.

The defender arguably fits the type of reinforcement the Whites need in their backline, with the left-footed centre-back capable of replacing Pascal Struijk in the near future.

If Paraag Marathe manages to sign Rivero from the Buenos Aires club, it will be a clear indication that the West Yorkshire outfit aren’t afraid to go into tough negotiations to sign quality talent.

It will be interesting to see whether the defender plays a role for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup after making his national team debut last year.