Is Renan Lodi Moving to Atletico Mineiro? Argentinos Juniors in Talks with Enzo Perez?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Renan Lodi is set to join Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer.
- Enzo Perez could be moving to Argentinos Juniors.
- Both transfers highlight the evolving strategies of South American clubs.
- Argentina's football landscape is notably dynamic with these new signings.
- Performance-based contracts are becoming more prominent in player negotiations.
Rio de Janeiro, Dec 25 (NationPress) Atletico Mineiro has finalized a deal to acquire former Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi on a free transfer, as confirmed by the Brazilian Serie A club. In another notable transfer within the South American market, Argentinos Juniors is in discussions with veteran midfielder Enzo Perez.
This marks one of the initial moves in the transfer window for Atletico Mineiro, with the 27-year-old expected to arrive in Belo Horizonte soon for a medical examination and to finalize a five-year contract.
"The contract signing and official announcement will happen following the successful completion of the medical evaluations," stated Atletico Mineiro's official website on Wednesday.
Lodi, who has represented Brazil in 19 matches, was without a club after leaving Al-Hilal in September. His professional career spans nine years, including stints at Nottingham Forest, Marseille, and Atletico Paranaense, as reported by Xinhua.
This year, Atletico Mineiro concluded the season in 11th place among Brazil's 20-team Serie A with a record of 12 wins, 12 draws, and 14 losses.
Additionally, Argentine midfielder Enzo Perez may be joining Argentinos Juniors on a free transfer, as announced by the Buenos Aires club on Wednesday.
Perez's contract with River Plate is set to expire on December 31, and manager Marcelo Gallardo has indicated that the former Valencia and Benfica player is not included in his future team plans.
Sports director Raul Sanzotti of Argentinos Juniors mentioned that negotiations are underway for a performance-based contract with the 39-year-old.
"We are interested in him. Hopefully, he can join us soon; we are in discussions," Sanzotti told DSports Radio. "It's not primarily about money; it's about the competitive aspect and what we aim to achieve."
"Argentinos typically offers contracts based on performance rather than just salary, aiming to foster competitiveness among players," he added.
This year, Perez made 37 appearances in all competitions for River Plate after rejoining the club in January from Estudiantes. He also played for River from 2017 to 2024, contributing to their victory in the 2018 Copa Libertadores.