Aston Villa are preparing to take the necessary steps to sign River Plate’s Santiago Beltrán in the winter market.
The goalkeeper came up through the ranks of the Argentine club’s youth system and made first team debut earlier this year. He kept 19 clean sheets and conceded 39 goals in 45 matches so far.
His impressive performances helped him make debut for Argentina in October. It has also caught the attention of European clubs, where Aston Villa are one of his suitors.
Aston Villa not giving up
Former Villa Park star Emiliano Martínez has already recommended the Europa League winners to sign his compatriot.
On October 8th, Sport Witness covered a report from Argentina explaining that the Villans and Manchester United made approaches. This has seen River Plate take action to extend his contract beyond December 2027 and also insert a $100m [€89m] release clause.
Santiago Beltrán hasn’t signed an improved contract yet, while Unai Emery’s side continue to pursue him. El Intransigente now states that the Villans are preparing to make an offer to secure his services in January.
The outlet states: ‘The Birmingham club’s intention is to present a formal proposal during the January transfer window. This step would aim to transform their interest in the young player into a concrete offer and open negotiations with River Plate.’
Aston Villa interest not altering River’s plan
River Plate, led by president Stéfano Di Carlo, continue to work on extending the player’s contract. The renewal negotiations are ongoing, and they hope to secure an agreement so that the $100m clause comes into effect.
This will put the South American club in a comfortable position to negotiate with Santiago Beltrán’s European suitors. For now, the stopper’s extension remains unresolved.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa are preparing to make a formal offer in the next window. If he hasn’t signed an extension by then and Unai Emery’s side were to table a bid, River Plate would have to make a decision in January.
Zion Suzuki arrived at Villa Park from Parma in the summer and is the No.1 this season. The Argentine will initially be his deputy if he were to join Aston Villa next year.
