Gianluca Prestianni (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
River Plate have renewed talks with Benfica for Gianluca Prestianni, preparing an improved bid after failed moves for Santino Andino and Maher Carrizo.
After failing to secure deals for Santino Andino and Maher Carrizo, River Plate have reshuffled their transfer plans and reignited negotiations for Gianluca Prestianni.
Both previous targets opted against a move to the Monumental. Andino has already agreed a transfer to Panathinaikos, while Carrizo chose to wait for potential offers from Europe. With time lost and options narrowing, River have now returned to a familiar name.
New proposal for Benfica
According to Bolavip, River have reopened talks with Benfica, this time prepared to significantly improve the terms that previously led to a firm rejection from Lisbon.
The Argentine giants are planning an offer close to $6 million for 50% of Prestianni’s economic rights, alongside a commitment to purchase the remaining percentage at a later date. While the total figure still falls short of the €9 million Benfica invested to sign the winger from Vélez Sarsfield, it represents a substantial step towards the Portuguese club’s valuation.
Unlike the earlier cases, Prestianni is understood to be willing to push for the move, a factor River believe could prove decisive as talks progress.
World Cup ambition a key factor
From the player’s perspective, the motivation is clear. Prestianni wants regular minutes to strengthen his case for inclusion in Argentina national team ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
After shining at the 2023 Under-20 World Cup, where Argentina finished runners-up under Diego Placente, Prestianni received his first senior call-up from Lionel Scaloni. He made his full international debut in a friendly against Angola on November 14, a moment that reinforced his belief that he remains firmly on the national team radar.
However, with his role at Benfica currently limited, the winger feels that returning to Argentina — and specifically to River — could offer the continuity and visibility he needs in the decisive months ahead.
Waiting on Benfica’s response
Benfica have yet to respond formally to the revised proposal, but those close to the player are optimistic that negotiations could now move forward. For River, Prestianni represents both a short-term solution to their attacking needs and a long-term investment with significant upside.
With the transfer window ticking on, the coming days are likely to determine whether River’s renewed push finally brings Prestianni back to Argentine football.