Torino warn Simeone won't be sold to River Plate
Quick summary
Torino have issued a public warning that striker Giovanni Simeone is not for sale, amid reported interest from Argentine club River Plate.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceGiovanni Simeone would gladly go to River Plate, claim reports in Argentina, but Torino informed the striker today that he is not for sale.
The centre-forward turns 31 next month and has been away from his homeland since first leaving River Plate for Genoa in 2016.
Simeone eager for Argentina return TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Giovanni Simeone of Torino celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on April 26, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) His career has been almost entirely in Italy, also representing Fiorentina, Cagliari, Hellas Verona and Napoli, coming to Torino last summer.
The €1.35m loan was turned into a permanent transfer for €7.2m plus a further €1m in potential add-ons.
According to Argentine transfer pundit Cesar Luis Merlo , Simeone met with Torino President Urbano Cairo this week and informed him of his desire to go back to River Plate.
However, the Granata are determined to keep hold of Simeone after buying him outright from Napoli, with a contract to June 2028 that has an option to extend for one more year.
Cholito scored 11 goals with two assists in 32 Serie A appearances for Torino this season.
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What happened
Torino are pushing back against reported interest from River Plate in signing Giovanni Simeone. The Argentine forward, currently on loan at Torino from Napoli, has been linked with a return to South American football, but Torino have made their position clear: the player is not available for transfer. Simeone, son of Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone, has been an important figure in Torino's attack this season. The club's public stance signals their intent to keep him beyond the current campaign.
Chance analysis
Torino's public declaration effectively closes the door on a mid-window approach from River Plate, reinforcing that Simeone is central to their squad plans. For River Plate, this removes a high-profile attacking target. For Simeone himself, continued stay at Torino provides stability but also raises questions about his long-term future at parent club Napoli. This kind of public statement is often a negotiating tactic to deter suitors while also reassuring fans and the player of his importance.
Torino retain a key attacking option in Simeone, with no imminent departure; River Plate must pursue alternative striking targets.
Simeone remains available for Torino's upcoming matches; no immediate squad disruption expected from River Plate interest.