[Manchester United](https://manunews.com/)’s scouting team has quietly been **tracking Richard Rios** every time Palmeiras steps onto the pitch. This Colombian defensive midfielder has emerged as one of the most exciting talents out of South America in recent months. **According to Alfredo Pedulla**, Rios is admired by United executives **Wilcox and Vivell**, and he’s shaping up to be a **cheaper, more attainable alternative** to Atalanta’s Ederson, with a price tag estimated between **€20–25 million**.
### Copa America & Club World Cup: Rios’ Rise to Fame
Rios first exploded onto the radar during **Copa America last year**, where he was one of Colombia’s standout performers. His energy, tackling, and ability to control the midfield quickly drew attention from clubs worldwide. More recently, at the **Club World Cup**, Rios continued his rise, dazzling for Palmeiras, the surprise Brazilian side, and arguably stealing the show from the tournament’s bigger names — including Chelsea-bound winger **Estevao Willian**.
### Why Richard Rios Fits Manchester United’s Midfield Blueprint
What sets Rios apart is his combination of **ball-winning ability and possession retention**. In an era where midfielders need to do more than just break up play, Rios brings **tactical discipline**, **tenacity**, and an ability to recycle the ball under pressure. For Manchester United, who have struggled to find a **well-rounded midfielder** capable of rotating with the likes of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo, Rios fits the bill perfectly.
Instead of blowing big money on Ederson — who is pricier and may not match United’s tactical needs — Rios offers a **smart, budget-friendly alternative**. His style is aggressive yet composed, making him an ideal candidate for the Premier League’s pace and physicality.
### Competition for Rios Is Heating Up — But United Are Ahead
Tottenham and other European clubs have also expressed interest in the 25-year-old Colombian. But with United’s scouts deeply impressed and tracking him consistently, the Red Devils look well-positioned to **get ahead of the pack**. At a reported price of €20–25 million, signing Rios could be one of the **best-value moves** United make this transfer window.
### The Financial and Tactical Win Manchester United Needs
Palmeiras play a demanding style that has sharpened Rios’ tactical awareness and work rate — key attributes for succeeding in England’s top flight. With United needing to **strengthen squad depth** and add quality to their midfield rotation, this deal ticks every box. The financial prudence combined with on-pitch potential makes Rios a **must-watch target**.
### Final Word: A Hidden Gem Ready to Shine at Old Trafford
If Manchester United pull the trigger on Richard Rios, they could land a **hidden gem** — a player with the right blend of grit, skill, and price. At a time when the club must rebuild smartly, Rios offers **immediate impact** without breaking the bank. Wilcox and Vivell’s consistent tracking sends a clear signal: United are ready to act on the affordable midfielder they desperately need.
This isn’t just about finding another body in midfield. It’s about adding a **dynamic, well-rounded player** who can help Manchester United compete at the highest level again. And Richard Rios might just be the key piece in that puzzle.
**Joe Soriano** is the editor of _The Trivela Effect_ and a FanSided Hall of Famer who has covered world football since 2011. He’s led top digital communities like _The Real Champs_ (Real Madrid) and has contributed to sites covering Tottenham, Liverpool, Juventus, and Schalke. Joe’s work has appeared in _ESPN_, _Bleacher Report_, and _Sports Illustrated_. He also helped manage _NFL Spin Zone_ and _Daily DDT,_ covering the NFL and pro wrestling, respectively.