Manchester United have been linked with a move for South American talent Lautaro Rivero, according to new reports.
One of the most impressive players in recent seasons at Manchester United has been Lisandro Martinez, who was sensational in victories over Arsenal and City.
United paid £46 million to sign Martinez from Ajax in 2022. With Harry Maguire’s future still unclear, they’re now considering fresh options for the back line.
According to TYC Sports, one player they’re keeping an eye on is Rivero, who now plays alongside Martinez at international level.
Lautaro Rivero to Man Utd Rumours
Manchester United are keeping an eye on Lautaro Rivero’s development at River Plate, according to reports out of Argentina.
El Crack Deportivo claim that United are showing interest in the young defender, noting his impressive form this season.
River Plate haven’t received a formal offer yet, but manager Marcelo Gallardo is aware of growing concerns about losing another key player from his lineup.
Back in July 2025, River Plate signed Rivero to a new deal with a release clause set at €100 million. This move came after they sold Franco Mastantuno to Real Madrid for less than his market value and was meant to give them more leverage in future negotiations.
Lautaro Rivero: Important background details
Lautaro Rivero got his start in professional football during a loan spell with Cordoba in 2024, making 30 appearances, including several in the Copa Libertadores.
He made a strong impression early on, notably in a 2-1 victory against Flamengo, which helped build his reputation as an emerging talent.
Although the original plan was for him to stay on loan for 18 months, he was brought back early after River Plate’s German Pezzella suffered an injury.
Rivero later signed a new deal and debuted for River Plate in August 2025. Since then, he has made 18 appearances for the club.
His quick progression continued with a call-up to Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad in October. He played 45 minutes in their 6-0 win over the USA.
Even though Lisandro Martinez’s return from injury has made it tougher for Rivero to secure a spot in the World Cup squad, it is impressive that he is already being considered.
TyC Sports highlighted just how far he has come. Not long ago, he was selling food on the street to make ends meet. Now, he is playing football at the highest level and representing his country at international level.
Lautaro Rivero’s qualities
River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo has been open about what sets Lautaro Rivero apart, highlighting not just his athletic ability but also his mindset.
Gallardo explained: “He is a player who understands space. His height is an advantage, but his mind is what makes him a River Plate player.
“We needed a player with his profile, left-footed, aggressive, but calm on the ball. He earned his spot by showing he could handle the pressure of the big stage.
“Lautaro knows what it means to fight for every inch. That mentality is contagious in the locker room.”
The similarities between Rivero and Lisandro Martinez are hard to ignore—both have that same blend of aggression and composure on the ball that fans at Old Trafford admire so much.
In a recent match for River Plate, Rivero completed 88 per cent of his passes and made 12 defensive contributions while helping keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 win.
A summer move looks more likely than anything immediate, but it’s clear Ineos has been increasing United’s scouting presence in South America lately.
Despite having a high release clause, Transfermarkt currently values Rivero at only £7 million. That could make him one of the more affordable options available at first-team level.
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