Aston Villa and Sunderland have another development to keep an eye on as Kevin Viveros’ future takes another turn in Brazil.
With the January transfer window getting closer, clubs of course are already making moves behind the scenes. Now, Viveros’ representatives have travelled to Curitiba city for talks with Athletico Paranaense.
And that comes after his contract renewal was put on hold last month. Previously, the two parties had agreed financial terms.
For Aston Villa, Sunderland and the other clubs watching, the next few days could offer a better idea of how Athletico intend to handle January.
Agents arrive in Brazil for talks
According to RTI Esporte, Marco Vanzini, a director at CAA Stellar, and Santiago Iommi, who represents Viveros, are in Curitiba to discuss a possible contract extension.
As we previously covered, Viveros had been close to signing improved terms before Athletico president Mario Celso Petraglia stepped in.
He wasn’t convinced the club needed to meet the agreed financial demands, so the negotiations were put on ice. Now the two sides are sitting down again, although RTI Esporte make it clear there’s no confirmation of any breakthrough.
There’s also no indication that a transfer has been agreed or is particularly close. Still, it’s an important time of the season to talk about the future.
January interest taking shape?
Back in September, Sport Witness reported with exclusivity Villa and Sunderland had asked questions about the striker during the summer.
More recently, we covered reports that Villa had returned for information . They were also considering an offer above €20m (£17.4m).
Athletico, meanwhile, are understood to want more than €30m (£26m). That gives everyone quite a bit to discuss before January.
The English clubs aren’t alone, either. Teams from Russia and Saudi Arabia have also been linked with Viveros. There is an expectation that his future will attract plenty of attention once the window opens.
For now, Athletico still have control of the situation, with the Colombian under contract until 2028.
Of course the Brazilian season ends in December, meaning Viveros should have a short holiday before Athletico return for pre-season in early January.
That gives interested clubs a natural window to make their moves. With the season finished and the player briefly away from club duties, January could be a convenient moment for everyone to sit down and discuss a transfer.
Either way, the fact his agents are back at the negotiating table is worth noting. Now the next move may come from Athletico themselves.
