Aston Villa Are Interested In This 22-Year-Old River Plate Talent: Will He Be A Right Choice For The Lions?

Aston Villa have reportedly intensified their pursuit of River Plate defender Lautaro Rivero, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes. The 22-year-old centre-back has drawn major interest across Europe after he made rapid progress in the Argentine club’s setup.

Villa appear particularly determined to move ahead of both Tottenham and Manchester City, with the Midlands side convinced he fits neatly into Unai Emery’s structure. Rivero, left-footed and comfortable carrying possession, suits a manager who wants his defence to stay in control while still looking to play forward.

Aston Villa are interested in signing Lautaro Rivero

Rivero joined River Plate as a youngster and earned promotion to their senior squad in the summer of 2024. Soon after, he had a useful loan spell at Central Córdoba, where regular minutes sharpened his development.

On return, he cemented a position in River Plate’s first team and has accumulated 16 appearances so far. That progression also helped him break through at the international level, showing that he is becoming one of Argentina’s most promising young defenders. Although his contract runs until 2028, clubs that see a chance to negotiate are already putting pressure on River Plate.

ROSARIO, ARGENTINA – OCTOBER 02: Lautaro Rivero of River Plate runs with the ball during the Copa Argentina 2025 quarter-final match between Racing Club and River Plate at Estadio Gigante de Arroyito on October 02, 2025 in Rosario, Argentina. (Photo by Luciano Bisbal/Getty Images)

Villa’s recruitment team have followed Rivero for several months. They expect his attributes to complement their defensive line, particularly with Emery seeking additional quality to compete domestically and in Europe.

While the release clause is set at a hefty €100 million, Villa reportedly intend to begin discussions with an opening proposal closer to €20 million. Interestingly, Emiliano Martínez has already spoken directly with Rivero about the potential move, which Villa believe could help them edge the competition.

However, Tottenham and Manchester City have stepped up their interest. Spurs continue to prioritise younger long-term recruits, and Rivero aligns with that policy.

What does he bring to the table?

City, meanwhile, regularly look at young talent who can fit into the squad quickly, especially given their rigorous fixture schedule. Both clubs see upside in his profile, yet recognise that settling into Premier League football demands players adjust quickly to a faster, tougher level.

Rivero brings agility, composure, and sound technique, but he still needs to improve his aerial presence and assertiveness in high-pressure situations. English football puts defenders under constant pressure, and he will succeed only if he addresses those areas quickly.

Villa might consider the move slightly risky, but there is enough upside to make the risk worth taking. From this perspective, they appear ready to act early before his valuation escalates. In our view, Villa’s willingness to push ahead suggests belief in his long-term value, provided patience accompanies expectation.