Lautaro Rivero in action for River Plate
Credit: Imago
Scott Mason
Wed 15 April 2026 17:10, UK
Lautaro Rivero is on Leeds United‘s transfer shortlist ahead of the summer window.
The River Plate defender has recently signed a new contract after breaking into the team with 28 appearances to his name so far.
His rise has seen him earn one cap for Argentina, where he played alongside Lionel Messi in a 6-0 win against Puerto Rico.
Daniel Farke‘s side look to be in a good place to survive Premier League relegation, and going down from this position would be a disaster.
Now, Rivero could be a possible Leeds signing based on reports coming out about the Argentine international.
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What has been said about Leeds’ interest in Lautaro Rivero?
River Plate announced Rivero’s new contract on 14 April, but new deals are not definitive blockers of any transfer.
Now, it seems Leeds are still looking to push on for a move for the Argentine international heading into the summer.
Lautaro Rivero for River Plate 2026 Total
League appearances 11
Dribbled past per game 0.6
Duel success 63%
Tackles per game 1.4
Clearances per game 4.5
According to TYC Sports, Leeds have begun to “take notice” of Rivero for his performances for River Plate.
The 22-year-old has a £73.7million release clause, but the Buenos Aires club are open to negotiating a fee much lower than that value.
The Whites face competition from fellow Premier League side West Ham, but relegation could mean Leeds pip them to the signing.
Current Premier League table
Credit: Breaking Media
Leeds face the Hammers on the final day of the season, and this saga could add an extra edge to that tie.
If the Whites send West Ham down, they could have a clearer run at landing a move for Rivero.
Where would Rivero fit at Leeds?
As a left-footed centre-back, Rivero would likely slot into the role occupied by Pascal Struijk. The Dutch defender is also left-footed.
Players who primarily use their left are not common, and the Whites’ interest in Rivero is put down to a combination of that “rare” asset as well as his defensive skills and ball control.
Struijk is attracting plenty of interest, so Rivero could be viewed as an ideal replacement for the 26-year-old.
Pascal Struijk Leeds United contract
Credit: Imago
Although Rivero’s release clause is set at £73.7m, Transfermarkt suggests he is only valued at £6m.
River Plate do not want to be left accepting a bargain transfer, though, as they reportedly still lick their wounds from losing Franco Mastantuonto to Real Madrid.