Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City all want Argentine wonderkid | OneFootball

Rising Star Ian Subiabre Attracts Premier League Heavyweights

River Plate’s next major export could be arriving on English shores as early as 2026, with both Manchester City and Liverpool intensifying their pursuit of Argentine prodigy Ian Subiabre. The 18-year-old forward has enjoyed a breakout year in South America, emerging as one of Argentina’s standout performers at the Under-20 World Cup, where his technical precision, pace, and decision-making have set him apart.

Premier League scouts have tracked Subiabre since his early teenage years, and sources suggest that conversations have already taken place between his representatives and top European clubs. Manchester City, who established a strong relationship with River Plate following the transfer of Claudio Echeverri, are among the front-runners for his signature. Liverpool, meanwhile, view the forward as part of a long-term recruitment plan aimed at reinforcing Arne Slot’s evolving system.

Premier League Giants Monitor South American Talent

Subiabre’s performances have caught the eye across Europe, not just in England. Chelsea and Arsenal have reportedly held informal talks with the player’s camp, while Brighton, Fulham and Crystal Palace have each dispatched scouts to monitor his progress. On the continent, Atletico Madrid, Juventus and RB Leipzig are also keen, ensuring competition for the young Argentine’s services will be fierce.

Those close to the situation indicate that Subiabre’s camp has resisted pressure to push for an early exit from River Plate. His maturity has been commended by those within the club, who believe he has handled the growing spotlight with composure. However, a move in 2026 now appears inevitable. Industry sources expect the summer to be the decisive window, though an early January deal remains possible if one of the interested clubs moves quickly to secure his signature.

Man City’s Strategic Advantage in Talks

Manchester City’s strong relationship with River Plate could play a crucial role. Their acquisition of Echeverri, along with the successful adaptation of Julián Álvarez, gives the Premier League champions a clear blueprint for integrating young South American talent. Pep Guardiola’s recruitment team is known to value Subiabre’s versatility — capable of playing across the forward line — and his ability to thrive in possession-heavy systems.

City’s development structure also provides an appealing route for emerging stars. With the City Football Group’s global network offering loan pathways in Europe, Subiabre’s camp may see a clearer transition into top-flight football compared to other potential destinations.

Liverpool’s Long-Term Vision Under Slot

Liverpool, meanwhile, continue to balance short-term ambition with strategic planning. Having invested heavily in recent transfer windows, the Anfield hierarchy — led by sporting director Richard Hughes — are now focusing on securing emerging global talent. Scouts from the club have been present throughout the Under-20 World Cup, monitoring Subiabre as well as compatriots Dylan Gorosito and Joel Ordonez.

Slot’s tactical structure demands technically gifted forwards who can press intelligently and adapt across attacking roles. Subiabre’s style, blending industrious movement with composure in tight areas, fits those requirements. While Liverpool are unlikely to rush into negotiations, there is a belief within the club that he represents a generational prospect worth pursuing.

Whether Subiabre’s future lies at the Etihad or Anfield, the sense is clear — Argentina’s next star is preparing to light up the Premier League stage.