Football updates: Medina joins Leverkusen and Gallardo linked to Ecuador

Several developments are occurring across South American and international football. Facundo Medina has joined Bayer Leverkusen from Olympique Marseille in a deal worth 23 million euros plus variables. The transfer includes a 1 million dollar solidarity mechanism payment to River Plate.

In coaching news, Marcelo Gallardo is reportedly close to becoming the manager of the Ecuador national team. Negotiations are centered on his salary, as his previous earnings at River Plate were approximately 7 million dollars annually, while his highest contract was in Saudi Arabia.

In player movements, Bautista Giannoni has left Colo Colo to pursue collegiate football in the United States after failing to debut in Chile. Additionally, defender Franco Calderón has moved to Independiente on loan from Universidad de Chile following a loss of playing time under manager Fernando Gago.

In Argentina, coach Caruso Lombardi has alleged that AFA president Chiqui Tapia threatened Thiago Almada with exclusion from the national team if he signed with River Plate.