Benfica eye Lautaro Rivero as possible Nicolás Otamendi replacement | OneFootball

According to Glorioso 1904, Benfica are tracking River Plate centre-back Lautaro Rivero as a potential replacement for 38-year-old captain Nicolás Otamendi, whose exit is increasingly expected at the end of the season.

Benfica have been active in recent weeks, assessing options for next season. Rivero, 22, is among the players being monitored.

The defender has impressed this term for the Buenos Aires side and could be sold in the summer. He is also being linked with Roma, Chelsea and Udinese, suggesting competition for any move.

The club are exploring reinforcements across defence, midfield and attack. The board, led by Rui Costa, have yet to take final decisions on specific targets.

Otamendi, No 30, is out of contract and is said to be leaving Portugal after the World Cup to join River Plate.

This season Rivero, valued at 7 million euros, has made 18 competitive appearances, 15 in the Argentine league and three in the Sudamericana. He has logged 1,628 minutes and scored one goal.

Source: Glorioso 1904