The operation does not run risks, but Miguel Ángel Russo will have to be patient to have Leandro Paredes in the mini preseason that the squad of Boca Juniors will face while preparing for the Clausura Tournament and the Argentine Cup in the latter half of the year. Even though the most optimistic fans hoped to see the world champion with his new teammates at the Ezeiza training facility, the reality is that the transfer situation will not be fully unlocked until next week.
What Happened with Leandro Paredes’ Transfer?
Reports from Italy reveal that the exit clause in Paredes’ contract with AS Roma expired, allowing him the possibility to leave for a nominal fee of 3.5 million euros. This information was highlighted by the newspaper Il Tempo, which noted that the deadline for this clause was June 30. Although some Roman media claim that there has been no progress on the transfer, alternative sources suggest otherwise.
As previously mentioned by Infobae last Friday, Paredes has already indicated his approval to Juan Román Riquelme regarding the proposal to join Boca Juniors until the end of 2028. Now, the transfer hinges on final formalities and paperwork exchanges between the club’s legal teams and the player, who recently turned 31. Boca Juniors is already gearing up for Paredes’ public presentation at La Bombonera.
Riquelme’s Cautious Approach
Following Boca’s elimination from the Club World Cup, Juan Román Riquelme took a cautious stance when discussing Paredes’ potential signing. He remarked, “I spoke when I arrived here fifteen days ago, and Leandro knows the relationship I have with him; he has open doors at our club.” This statement has given hope to fans while also highlighting the need for patience.
AS Roma’s Economic Situation
According to the Italian outlet Il Messaggero, AS Roma is facing economic pressures, needing to generate funds to address fines imposed by UEFA. They are aiming for a transfer fee of 10 million euros in this market window. If Paredes is successfully transferred to Boca, it would provide a significant boost, covering over a third of that financial target. Meanwhile, coach Gian Piero Gasperini has acknowledged Paredes’ upcoming exit and is already exploring alternatives within the squad and the market.
Paredes in Argentina
Currently, Leandro Paredes is in Argentina after enjoying a family vacation in Miami, where he coincidentally met Paulo Dybala. Both players, who share a connection through their Italian club, have been training at the AFA site in Ezeiza. When questioned about a potential transfer to Boca, Dybala’s response was definitive: “There is nothing.” It’s important to note that Paredes’ contract with AS Roma is valid until June 2026.
Anticipating Paredes’ Role at Boca
At Boca Juniors, preparations are underway for Paredes to wear the coveted number 5, which was previously held by Rodrigo Battaglia. Discussions of potential leadership roles are also ongoing, with speculation about the captaincy, as Edinson Cavani wore the armband during the Club World Cup. However, until the final paperwork is signed, no formal announcement will be made. Miguel Russo now faces the challenge of starting training sessions without the world champion, as fans await updates on the postponement of the opening match against Argentinos Juniors. The Boquense board has yet to receive a response regarding their application to the AFA.
The coaching staff aims to maximize their preparation time, eyeing their debut against Santa Fe Union on the second matchday of the Clausura, which will be held at La Bombonera. Whether Paredes will be available for this crucial fixture remains uncertain, but his skills and leadership could also prove beneficial for upcoming matches against Hurricane at Patricios Park or Racing at the Alberto J. Armando stadium. Additionally, Boca is scheduled to face Atlético Tucumán in the Round of 16 of the Argentine Cup at the end of this month.
In terms of the transfer market, Boca Juniors is prioritizing sealing Paredes’ agreement before exploring other signings, particularly for a right midfielder. While details on potential targets remain under wraps, sources suggest that the club is eyeing an Argentine player currently playing abroad. This strategy comes as a response to the high price tag Atlético Nacional has placed on Colombian player Marino Hnestroza, who is priced at 8 million dollars.