River Plate received a formal proposal in recent days through an intermediary to sign center forward Jonathan Calleri, currently at São Paulo. The Argentine player, with a remarkable spell at Boca Juniors, was offered to the board of the Núñez club at a time when the team is looking for options to reinforce the attack.
The possibility arises in a period in which the transfer market still allows movements involving players from abroad until March 31st. Marcelo Gallardo, River’s technician, had already shown interest in Calleri’s profile on previous opportunities, but negotiations never progressed concretely.
Despite the offer, internal sources indicate that there are no advanced negotiations at the moment. The board carefully assesses the viability of the operation, considering the high cost involved and the necessary adaptation in the midst of the season that has already started.
Current status of Calleri on São Paulo
Jonathan Calleri remains a fundamental player in the tactical scheme of São Paulo commanded by Hernán Crespo. The striker played six official games in 2026 and scored two goals, both in Campeonato Paulista.
His presence on the field has been constant, including as a starter in the 2-1 victory over Flamengo, in Brasileirão’s debut. Esses numbers reinforce the player’s importance for the Brazilian club, which plans to discuss contract renewal soon.
History of interest of River in Calleri
Jonathan Calleri’s name has already appeared on River Plate’s radar in previous moments. Tanto Marcelo Gallardo and Martín Demichelis, in different periods as coaches, maintained direct contact with the athlete.
At the time, economic differences prevented any progress in the negotiations. The recurring interest demonstrates that the profile of the Argentine center forward fits the characteristics sought by the club for the offensive sector.
Now, with the new proposal arrived through an intermediary, part of the board is once again analyzing the case. The internal evaluation considers not only current performance, but also the player’s experience in high-level competitions.
Costs involved in the possible transfer
Calleri’s contract with São Paulo is valid until December 31, 2026, which requires direct negotiation with the Brazilian club. The striker’s current salary is high by Argentine football standards, representing a significant obstacle.
In addition to the salary amount, any operation would involve payment of compensation to São Paulo. Estimativas initials point out that the player’s share price does not fall below three million dollars, depending on the renewal conditions under discussion at Brasil.
River Plate would need to balance these expenses with financial planning for the season. The board prioritizes viable operations that do not compromise the budget allocated to other positions.
The combination of a high salary and transfer fee makes negotiations complex in the short term. The club evaluates alternatives on the market before moving forward with more onerous proposals.
Recent performance and attacker numbers
Calleri started 2026 with regular participation in all São Paulo competitions. The two goals scored in Paulista demonstrate his ability to finish even in the early stages of the season.
- Six official games played
- Two converted goals
- Ownership maintained in most matches
- Contribution in an important victory against Flamengo
These indicators show that the player arrives at a possible transfer in good physical and technical form. Sua regularity as a holder reinforces the current market value.
Position of Gallardo regarding reinforcements in the attack
Marcelo Gallardo publicly expressed caution when dealing with the search for a center forward. Após recent draw, the coach emphasized that he does not intend to hire just to fill a vacancy.
He highlighted the difficulty of adapting quickly amid ongoing competitions. The statement suggests a preference for waiting until the June market for more structured investments in the sector.
Gallardo values players who quickly integrate into River’s style of play. Essa vision directly influences the analysis of names like Calleri, despite the historical interest.
Context of the pass market for River
River Plate maintains an open window for hiring from abroad until the end of March. Essa rule allows adjustments to the squad even after the start of local competitions.
The board focuses efforts on specific positions, with the attack as one of the identified priorities. Outros names of center forwards circulate internally, but none have advanced to the concrete negotiation phase.
The arrival of proposals like Calleri moves the football department. Cada case undergoes detailed analysis by the technical staff before any official approach.
The club balances the need for immediate reinforcements with long-term planning. Decisões taken now directly impacts performance in continental and local competitions throughout the year.
