River Plate agrees €20 million deal for 50% of Thiago Almada, Flamengo also eyes the midfielder

River Plate's management, led by president Stefano Di Carlo and sporting director Pablo Longoria, reached an agreement with Atlético Madrid to acquire 50% of the registration rights of Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada for €20 million. The transaction is conditional on Almada's decision after the World Cup, and the club is prepared to make a significant financial effort to secure the 25‑year‑old, who is currently with Atlético.

River has already confirmed five other signings and is restructuring its squad after the departure of 14 players. Brazilian side Flamengo is also monitoring the market and evaluating a possible bid for Almada, with the Argentine move valued at roughly R$117 million for the half‑share. Flamengo's interest is being reported as unlikely to outbid the Argentine club.

The negotiations come as Almada continues to feature for the Argentina national team at the World Cup, adding urgency to the transfer discussions.