Richard Ríos continues to make waves at the Club World Cup, and with scouts from Nottingham Forest watching closely in the United States, Colombian legends believe the Palmeiras midfielder is ready for the next step.
Speaking to ESPN Brasil, former Colombia stars Faustino Asprilla and Víctor Aristizábal both praised the performances of Ríos and also Jhon Arias, another Colombian standout currently at Fluminense.
According to Aristizábal, “They are representing the country very well. Some European club must be looking at them.” He added: “They wouldn’t have any problem playing in Europe. But Brazilian football is paying well, so sometimes the players prefer to stay. Still, they are ready.”
Asprilla, who had a brilliant spell at Newcastle during his career, also backed a European move, suggesting interest could intensify if either player reaches the final of the tournament: “If they get to the final, it’s possible that many teams will be interested in these two great Colombian players.”
Between them, Arias has been the standout statistically, with a goal, an assist and 12 chances created, the most in the tournament. He currently ranks fourth overall in the DataESPN ratings, behind Michael Olise, Vitinha and Rúben Neves. Ríos, meanwhile, has been less flashy but just as essential to Palmeiras, earning a score of 6.95.
That has not gone unnoticed. According to reports from Brazil, Nottingham Forest have reignited their long-standing interest in the 24-year-old and sent scouts to watch him in the United States.
The Premier League side, who qualified for the UEFA Conference League, are looking to strengthen their midfield and see Ríos as a strong fit for Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans – specially with Ramon Sosa reportedly going the other way.
Ríos is under contract with Palmeiras until the end of 2028, and they have already shown they’re in no rush to sell.
Last year, the Brazilian club rejected offers of £20 million from West Ham United for Richard Ríos, standing firm on their valuation of the midfielder. With his release clause set at £85 million, any negotiation will likely require a significant effort from interested sides.
While such a fee would be out of reach for Forest, the interest is real, and the player’s name has also been linked with other European clubs, including Manchester United, Tottenham, Milan and Roma.
In contrast, Arias – despite his strong performances – has not attracted Premier League approaches so far. The winger was linked with Galatasaray in the previous window but ended up renewing with Fluminense.
Both players remain fully focused on the tournament, but if their current form continues, it’s unlikely they’ll finish 2024 where they started it. And if Asprilla and Aristizábal are to be believed, a move to Europe is no longer a question of if, but when.