Are River eyeing up Mateo Del Blanco? | OneFootball

While Unión focuses on closing their season and facing the playoffs of the Torneo Clausura with determination, a buzz comes from Buenos Aires that stirs up the Tatengue hive: River may have once again set their sights on Mateo Del Blanco, the 22-year-old left-back who has quietly become one of the most valuable assets of the rojiblanco squad.

Although there hasn't been any formal contact between the clubs yet, various reports from the Millonario camp agree that Del Blanco's name is among the alternatives being considered for the next transfer market. The reason is clear: Milton Casco will not continue with the team starting in 2026, and the management is working on finding a reliable replacement for a key position in Marcelo Gallardo's system.

Del Blanco, with a contract at Unión until 2028 and a valuation close to 4 million dollars, possesses characteristics that appeal to the River world: speed, offensive aggressiveness, defensive solidity, and a tactical maturity unusual for his age. It's no surprise that Millonario fans, even before any negotiation, are already mentioning him on social media as one of the desired players to strengthen the left flank.

In this context, those in Santa Fe are keeping a close watch. Although the immediate priority is the competition, no one overlooks the fact that a potential formal interest from River could become one of the most notable moves in the local market. Unión, which has already suffered the early departure of several homegrown talents, will take a firm stance this time: they will only part with the player if the offer respects the projection and value of someone who is currently considered a key piece of the team.

For now, everything remains in the realm of rumors. The Tatengue management hasn't received any calls, and from Núñez, they insist that the situation "is merely an internal evaluation." However, it is telling that the demands from the Millonario stands coincide with a moment when River needs new figures and Unión showcases a batch ready for export.

Del Blanco, detached from the unfolding story, continues to focus on the playoffs. But he knows – and the club does too – that if he maintains his level in the decisive stage, his name could definitively move from the realm of rumor to negotiation.

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