Richard Rios, the 24-year-old Colombian midfielder playing for Palmeiras, continues to attract interest from major European clubs following his impressive performances at the 2024 Copa America. Both Manchester United and AC Milan have been closely monitoring Rios, with Manchester United reportedly preparing to make an offer of around £17 million to secure his services【39†source】【40†source】.
Rios’ standout displays for Colombia, where he formed a solid midfield partnership with James Rodriguez, have significantly increased his market value. While Palmeiras had previously been open to selling him for around €20 million, his current valuation has jumped to approximately €30 million, partly due to a release clause of €60 million【39†source】【40†source】.
Despite the interest from European giants, Palmeiras are not under immediate financial pressure to sell Rios, having already made substantial earnings from recent player sales. However, a significant offer could still tempt the Brazilian club to reconsider their stance【39†source】【40†source】.
It remains to be seen if Manchester United will proceed with a formal bid and if AC Milan will also step up their pursuit in the coming weeks.
Man United set sights on £17m ‘next James Rodriguez’ but face Chelsea and Real Madrid blow
Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios as a potential summer signing, according to Brazilian media.
The Red Devils are on the lookout for a new midfielder, having already spent a combined £94 million on striker Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro. Although they have Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte on their radar, the hefty £59 million price tag has prompted United to explore other options.
Among those alternatives is Benfica’s 19-year-old sensation Joao Neves, who could potentially be signed for less than his £101 million release clause. However, United’s search has gone far and wide, with Rios catching their attention after his impressive performances at the Copa America.
The 24-year-old Rios played a key role in helping Colombia reach the final of South America’s top tournament, where they narrowly lost to Argentina. He was particularly outstanding in Colombia’s 5-0 win over Panama, forming a strong midfield partnership with James Rodriguez under coach Nestor Lorenzo.
According to *Goal Brazil*, United have reached out to Palmeiras to inquire about Rios’ availability, with AC Milan also reportedly showing interest. Erik ten Hag’s side is said to be preparing a £17 million bid for Rios, although this offer is unlikely to persuade Palmeiras to sell, as reported by *The Mirror*.
Palmeiras are not in a position where they need to sell, having already secured significant funds through recent transfers. They sold Endrick to Real Madrid for a fee that could rise to €72 million (£60 million) and have agreed deals with Chelsea for Estevao Willian and West Ham for Luis Guilherme.
Chelsea are set to bring in 17-year-old Willian next summer in a deal potentially worth £51 million, while West Ham have signed Guilherme for £25.5 million on a five-year contract, with the youngster expected to join Julen Lopetegui’s squad this season.
Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira has commented on the club’s transfer strategy following these high-profile sales: “We have already made a lot of money from sales,” he said. “Now, we need to focus on alternatives on the field.”
Reinforcing Ferreira’s stance, a club insider told *Goal*: “What is certain is that the club will not negotiate Rios in this window. It’s normal for interested parties to come forward, but the club’s position on the matter is clear.”
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