Arruabarrena targets Francisco Álvarez as Boca prepare bid for Argentinos Juniors defender | OneFootball

According to LaNumer12.com.ar, Boca are preparing a formal bid for Argentinos Juniors centre-back Francisco Álvarez, a signing specifically requested by Arruabarrena. The club have accelerated efforts to meet their coach's demand.

Other options were assessed, but the manager has focused solely on the player based in La Paternal. Strengthening a defence short on alternatives has become the staff's main priority.

Reinforcing the position is now considered vital, despite Arruabarrena repeatedly saying it was well covered. Kevin Lomónaco was offered in recent days, but he was ruled out as attention remains on Álvarez.

Álvarez's form this season underpins Boca's push. The Villa Krause native has been a key figure for his side, contributing goals and helping to keep clean sheets. He is strong in the air despite his stature and is noted for a tidy build-up from the back, a non-negotiable for this Boca.

Talks had cooled weeks ago because of his asking price, but the board led by Juan Román Riquelme have reactivated contact and are refining the finances ahead of a firm proposal. Álvarez is under contract until the end of 2029.

The main hurdle is financial, with a release clause close to 7 million dollars. Boca's exact offer has not emerged, and the coming hours will be decisive to reach a preliminary agreement before the deadline in Argentine football expires.

If completed, the deal would make Álvarez the fifth addition under Arruabarrena, joining his former team-mate Leandro Lozano, Sebastián Villa, Álvaro Montero and Enner Valencia.

Source: LaNumer12.com.ar

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”