River Plate and Atletico Madrid have a verbal agreement in place for the transfer of Thiago Almada. The deal is valued at €20 million, a figure that underscores the growing financial muscle of Argentine clubs in the South American market.
A deal in principle
The agreement is not yet signed, but both clubs have shaken hands on the broad terms. Almada, who currently plays for River Plate, is expected to move to Spain once the paperwork is finalized. The verbal nature of the deal means details like payment structure and add-ons are still being ironed out, but the core €20 million fee is set.
This transfer would be one of the biggest outbound moves for an Argentine club in recent years. It signals that top South American talent can still command high fees without going through European intermediaries.
Argentine clubs on the rise
The deal highlights a broader trend: Argentine clubs are becoming more competitive in the global transfer market. They're holding onto players longer and negotiating better terms. River Plate, in particular, has built a reputation for developing young talent and selling at a premium.
For Atletico Madrid, landing Almada fits a pattern of scouting South America for young, affordable stars. The club has had success with Argentine players before, and Almada's style is seen as a good fit for Diego Simeone's system.
From verbal to final
The next steps are straightforward but crucial. River Plate and Atletico Madrid will draw up a formal contract. Almada will need to agree personal terms and pass a medical. Once those boxes are checked, the transfer can be announced.
Neither club has commented publicly, but the verbal agreement is a strong signal that the move is all but done. For now, fans on both sides of the Atlantic are waiting for the official word.
