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September 4, 2024
In most parts of the world, the transfer window has closed until January, leaving some players frustrated while others remain hopeful for future opportunities.
The top talent from South America continues to attract attention from overseas, with European clubs eager to secure players at a young age. A notable trend during this window has been the growing interest from Saudi Arabia in acquiring young South American players.
However, another important aspect to consider: Brazil has significantly ramped up its spending recently. Despite this increase, it doesn’t necessarily imply that Brazil can compete with European clubs for the most prominent stars. Instead, it often means that Brazilian teams are acquiring talent from neighboring countries, intending to develop these players and sell them to European clubs.
Here’s a compilation of 10 South American players who may likely transfer next year. While eight are playing in Brazil, only three are actually from Brazil.
Supported by the financial boost from André’s transfer and others, Fluminense has successfully repelled transfer offers from Girona and Galatasaray for their Colombian international midfielder, Arias. The club has acknowledged his disappointment—Arias, who is 26 and a late bloomer, is eager to make his mark in the sport. With the transfer window in Turkey remaining open until September 13, there’s still a possibility that he could depart soon. However, if he stays past that date, it will be challenging for Fluminense to retain him come January.
Arias performed well during the Copa America as a disciplined member of Colombia’s midfield trio, but he has truly excelled at Fluminense. Primarily a right winger, he is free to roam across the pitch. Tough in tackles, agile on his feet, and equipped with a remarkable work rate and vision for passing, he serves as the main creative force for the current South American champions. He was the only player who could consistently challenge Manchester City during the Club World Cup final.
Credits to Brazilian Serie A Image Gallery
In a move that underscores the trend of multi-club ownership, Almada has transitioned from Atlanta United to Botafogo in Brazil, with the clear understanding that he will be heading to Europe next year. A young member of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad, the playmaker is known for his sharply angled, well-weighted passes and quick, intricate combinations. Whether he can physically compete in a major European league remains uncertain. However, with Botafogo owner John Textor holding stakes in both Lyon and Crystal Palace (potentially trading for Everton), Almada’s path across the Atlantic appears well facilitated.
As an attacking midfielder for River Plate, Mastantuono cannot move to Europe until he turns 18 in August of next year, but his future is likely to be resolved long before that time. Real Madrid nearly secured a deal for him before withdrawing in frustration over media speculation, which could open the door for an approach from Barcelona. Demonstrating remarkable composure for his age, Mastantuono can operate centrally and on the wing, selecting his options calmly and posing a threat from free kicks. He held his own in Argentina’s top division at just 16, indicating a promising future.
Medina, a left-sided player from Ecuador’s impressive Independiente del Valle—renowned for producing young talent—has been making waves. He is quick and direct, a natural winger, adept at combining with teammates and cutting into the penalty area. Recently, he has also been utilized as an attacking right-back and established himself as a free-kick specialist. During the summer, he attracted interest from clubs in Belgium. However, with a few more months of first-team experience and possibly a senior international call-up, Medina’s market value could increase significantly before the next transfer window opens.
Another promising talent emerging from the Palmeiras academy, Reis is a center-back who stands out from the more flamboyant attacking players like Endrick or Estêvão. At just 18 years old, he has made a strong case for a spot in the first team, attracting the attention of major European clubs even before his ascent. Known for his elegance in defending and ability to advance the ball, he is comfortable playing in both a back four or a three-center-back formation. While he still needs to develop physically, his potential is immense. Palmeiras has dismissed any transfer rumors for this window, but it’s expected that they will face challenges in retaining him next year.
Richard Ríos is a Colombian midfielder with a unique journey to professional football. He was first noticed while participating in a futsal tournament in Brazil, where he was transitioned to an outfield position. After searching, which included an unfruitful stint in Mexico, he joined Palmeiras last year and quickly became an integral part of the squad that clinched the 2023 league title. His performances earned him a call-up to the Colombian national team, and he excelled in the Copa America, showcasing his fiery spirit and considerable talent—capable of tackling, dribbling, passing, crossing, and advancing with the ball. Since then, Palmeiras has been fending off interest from clubs across Europe and has even turned down a substantial offer from Turkey. At 24, Ríos may feel a sense of urgency for a new challenge, making it difficult for Palmeiras to retain him in 2025.
Luiz Henrique is a powerful and agile left-footed winger who primarily plays on the right but is adept at cutting inside and operating in a central forward role. Now 23, he previously played for Real Betis in Spain until he became entangled in the same betting scandal as Lucas Paquetá, although he seems to have avoided any investigation. Botafogo brought him back to Brazil at the start of the year, and after a shaky first couple of months, he has flourished to the point of receiving his first international call-up. Henrique is set to represent Brazil in upcoming matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. He returned to Brazil, understanding that if he performed well, a move back to Europe would be on the horizon.
Credits to Brazilian Serie A Image Gallery
Luciano Rodríguez was the standout striker for the Uruguayan youth team that claimed the under-20 World Championship last year. He played a vital role in helping Liverpool win their first Uruguayan title before moving to Bahia in Brazil, a club within the City Group. They hope to guide his development through their established structure, similar to their success with Savinho. Rodríguez is a versatile and strong runner who is being gradually integrated into the team. With Darwin Núñez currently suspended and Luis Suárez stepping back from international duty, Rodríguez has a significant opportunity to establish himself with the senior Uruguayan national team.
The son of a former Paraguay international goalkeeper, Damián Bobadilla is a 23-year-old central midfielder who moved to Brazil earlier this year. After a slow start, he has steadily improved with each game he plays for São Paulo. When he’s at his best, Bobadilla wins possession and charges at opposing defenses, drawing defenders in and creating space for his teammates. A few strong performances with the senior Paraguay national team would undoubtedly enhance his visibility on the international stage.
Youngster Alisson Santana from Atlético Mineiro attracted interest from Premier League clubs during the transfer window, though no deals materialized. He has been utilized primarily on the right side of the pitch, functioning more as an attacking midfielder than a traditional winger. With his robust physique and strong ball control, he makes quick decisions under pressure. Spending a few more months gaining first-team experience could benefit his development. As he progresses, numerous clubs will likely be eager to sign him and bring him across the Atlantic next year.
Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and football sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Football News Today, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for football, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.
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