Claudio “Diablito” Echeverri has been confirmed as a new player for Girona. Following the early end of his loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen, and despite interest from River Plate, the Argentine attacking midfielder will continue his career in Europe after Manchester City agreed to send him to the Catalan club on loan until June 2026.

After his departure from Leverkusen, several clubs explored a move for Echeverri, including River, where he came through the academy. However, Manchester City preferred that the player remain in Europe. The operation was facilitated by the fact that both clubs belong to the City Football Group.

Girona are currently in a difficult situation in La Liga, sitting 18th with 15 points and in the relegation zone. The club hopes Echeverri can add depth and options in the attacking midfield as they fight to move up the table.

Echeverri’s agent, Enzo Montepaone, recently addressed the player’s future, acknowledging the player’s desire to return to Argentina while confirming City’s stance. “It’s what Claudio wants, but it’s not Manchester City’s desire,” he said. “I have meetings scheduled with the directors and we will define Claudio’s future, but I can tell you it will be in Europe.”

During his time in Germany, Echeverri featured sparingly. He played 270 minutes across 11 matches for Leverkusen, averaging 24 minutes per appearance, and registered one assist in the UEFA Champions League against Copenhagen in September.

Manchester City signed Echeverri in 2024 for €18.5 million, but competition for places limited his opportunities with the first team. After an unproductive spell in Germany, the move to Girona is expected to offer him more consistent playing time.

Regular minutes are a key objective for the 19-year-old, particularly with an eye on the FIFA World Cup 2026. “Claudio needs to play because he has chances to be considered for the World Cup with the Argentina national team,” Montepaone said.

Inter Miami are interested in signing Giovani Lo Celso of Real Betis.

The reigning MLS Cup champions could be signing Giovani Lo Celso. According to El Correo de Andalucía, the MLS club are interested in the 29 year old but Real Betis would ask €5 million for him.

Giovani Lo Celso joined Real Betis in 2024 from Tottenham Hotspur. Inter Miami previously signed Rodrigo De Paul earlier this year from Atletico Madrid.

River Plate continued their transfer-market activity ahead of the 2026 season by securing the signings of Aníbal Moreno and Fausto Vera, reinforcing the midfield as requested by head coach Marcelo Gallardo.

River reached an agreement with Palmeiras to acquire 100 percent of Moreno’s transfer rights in a deal reported to be close to $7 million. The midfielder arrives after alternating between starts and substitute appearances with Palmeiras, recent runners-up in the Copa Libertadores, and is expected to compete for a regular role in River’s midfield.

While attending a charity event in Catamarca, his home province, Moreno suggested the transfer was agreed. “My agent knows we made the best decision for me, for my family, and for my future. It’s the right decision. I’m preparing well for the start of the year,” he said.

Moreno’s situation is also being followed by the Argentina national team. He recently featured in an international friendly against Puerto Rico, and consistent minutes at River could influence future selections by Lionel Scaloni ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

In parallel, River completed the signing of Fausto Vera, who arrives from Atlético Mineiro. Vera adds another option in central midfield and increases competition in a sector that the club identified as a priority after the end of the 2025 season.

Beyond the midfield, River continue to explore options in attack. One of the names being discussed is Gianluca Prestianni, currently at Benfica, with negotiations focused on a possible loan move. Another player under consideration is Tadeo Allende, whose contract belongs to Celta de Vigo after his recent season in Major League Soccer.

Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand has confirmed that Claudio Echeverri will be leaving the club.

Kasper Hjulmand spoke at a press conference and stated that Echeverri’s loan deal with the club is going to be terminated and he will be returning to Manchester City in January. The 19 year old has been rumored to join Girona on loan.

Claudio Echeverri joined Bayer Leverkusen from Manchester City but has only taken part in six league games.