Leandro Paredes (foto: Getty Images)
Leandro Paredes confirms Boca’s interest and talks with Riquelme, but says he won’t decide on a return until after a 20-day vacation.
Leandro Paredes has addressed ongoing speculation linking him with a return to Boca Juniors, just days before the club’s debut at the 2025 Club World Cup in Miami.
Boca are set to face Benfica in the group stage at the Hard Rock Stadium, and the buzz surrounding a potential homecoming for the World Cup-winning midfielder continues to intensify. Juan Román Riquelme, Boca’s vice president, is personally leading the negotiations, with a special clause in Paredes’ Roma contract allowing the Buenos Aires club to buy him for €3.5 million, payable in instalments.
Despite mutual interest, the deal is far from sealed. Speaking to Radio La Red on Wednesday, Paredes clarified the current status of the talks: “Did Russo call me? I haven’t spoken to anyone.” He added: “I speak regularly with Román. I want to come back, but it’s not just my decision.”
The 29-year-old confirmed that he has not yet discussed his future with Roma and intends to take time before making a final call. “I haven’t spoken to Roma about what’s next. I’ll take a 20-day vacation and decide after that.”
Still, his emotional ties to Boca remain intact. “I’ll be watching one of Boca’s matches at the Club World Cup. I’m always close to Boca.”
Paredes left Boca in 2014 for European football and has since played for clubs such as PSG, Juventus, and now Roma. His possible return would be a significant boost to Miguel Ángel Russo’s squad, especially with the team preparing for high-stakes international competition.