Santos emerge as tough rivals for River in the race for Ascacibar | OneFootball

Amid the celebrations for the 2025 Clausura that Estudiantes won against Racing, Santiago Ascacíbar left the door open to a possible departure, and the atmosphere quickly changed in La Plata. After the Champions Trophy, the midfielder will take a break to decide, and the management has already admitted that it will not be easy to retain him.

River is closely monitoring every move. In Núñez, they view adding the midfielder from Estudiantes favorably and have marked him as a priority, although they know they are not alone. In recent hours, a strong competitor has emerged from Brazil: Neymar's Santos also has him on their radar.

The Peixe is looking to rebuild after a challenging year. After avoiding relegation at the last moment and securing their place in the next Copa Sudamericana, the São Paulo club aims to compete at the top again. With Juan Pablo Vojvoda as the coach, the need for reinforcements is clear, and the Argentine appears on the list of alternatives, according to Brazilian media.

The contractual context plays a key role. Ascacíbar has a contract valid until December of next year and represents one of the highest salaries on the team. For Estudiantes, facing a salary increase will not be easy, especially considering that the player is entering the final stage of his agreement.

From a sporting perspective, the dilemma is deep. The captain could end the year with another title and, if he stays in La Plata, compete in the next Copa Libertadores. Even so, the possibility of a change of scenery and a departure with recognition weighs in the midfielder's personal analysis.

In Brazil, the interest coexists with limitations. Santos has names for the position and a tight economy, in addition to having other priorities on the agenda, such as resolving Neymar's contractual situation and pursuing Gabigol's return. This scenario could play in favor of the Millonario.

For now, in Núñez, they are not changing the plan. Contacts with the player's entourage have been ongoing for some time and have progressed positively. The most complex step will be sitting down with the management led by Juan Sebastián Verón, something that could happen in the coming days to formalize the intention to invest in a part of the midfielder's rights.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.