According to Fichajes, Palmeiras have rejected a €25 million bid from West Ham United for key midfielder Richard Rios. The Brazilian club are seeking €30 million, which is reportedly written in the Colombian midfielder’s contract, and there will be no negotiations below the above asking rate.
International tournaments often unearth a gem that had previously flown under the radar for top clubs, particularly those in Europe. Last summer, Richard Rios made a significant impact during the Copa America, helping Colombia into the final, where they lost out to eventual champions Argentina.
Rios certainly was courted by several teams last summer, but they were unable to make a move for reasons unknown. The South American midfielder brings about tenacity and energy into the midfield, which, coupled with his technical qualities, makes him a near-complete package that many of the top teams would like in their squad.
There is interest from Atletico Madrid as well as Saudi Arabian clubs, although there are many Premier League sides also vying for Richard Rios. Last summer, a few English sides were looking closely, while some may have also presented an unofficial offer to test the waters with his Brazilian club Palmeiras.
Rios put in another top performance with Palmeiras despite their exit from the Club World Cup, as Fulham were expected to bid for the midfielder after the tournament ends. They might come in with an offer in the coming period, while Manchester United are also a contender.
As it stands, West Ham have made inroads in their pursuit of Rios, having seen a €25 million bid rejected by Palmeiras. The Brazilian club are seeking the €30 million written in the midfielder’s contract, and will not negotiate for anything less at the moment. Hence, for the Hammers to make further ground on the South American midfielder, they must increase their offer or risk losing him to possibly a bigger club.
Graham Potter has been pushing for a new midfielder who brings some level of bite in the central areas. Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha was mentioned as an option, and now, especially for the price, Richard Rios could be a big part of their thinking. However, the Hammers must decide whether to make another bid for the €30m-rated South American midfielder or leave the table in pursuit of an alternative.
