Aston Villa join Atlético Madrid and Fiorentina in race for River Plate goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán

Aston Villa are reportedly among the European clubs interested in River Plate goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán ahead of the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old Argentine has attracted attention following an impressive breakthrough season, with Atlético Madrid and Fiorentina also monitoring his situation.

According to journalist Sebastián Srur, Beltrán could be approaching a departure from River despite ongoing negotiations over a new contract.

However, no formal offer has been confirmed.

Beltrán has established himself as River Plate's first-choice goalkeeper during 2026, making 45 appearances, keeping 19 clean sheets and conceding 36 goals.

His performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, including Aston Villa.

Speaking on Splendid AM 990, Srur identified three potential destinations.

"Atlético Madrid, Fiorentina and Aston Villa are pursuing Santiago Beltrán," he said, as reported by Soy del Millo.

The journalist also suggested that a departure was becoming increasingly likely.

"Every day I get more of a feeling that Santiago Beltrán is leaving. He's increasingly likely to leave."

However, Srur's assessment does not establish that negotiations are advanced.

TyC Sports reports that River have yet to receive a formal offer, while transfer valuations have varied between approximately $15 million and €15 million.

Atlético Madrid have reportedly identified Beltrán as a potential long-term successor to Jan Oblak, adding competition for Villa.

River are attempting to protect Beltrán's future amid growing European interest.

His current contract expires in December 2027, and discussions over an extension have been ongoing for several months.

Argentine reports differ on whether the proposed agreement would run until 2029 or 2030.

The club also reportedly want to increase his release clause substantially, with several outlets citing a proposed figure of €100 million.

That would represent a significant increase on his existing clause, reportedly worth around €25 million.

However, the proposed terms have not been formally announced, and a higher release clause would not necessarily reflect the fee River might accept in negotiations.

River will continue working on Beltrán's contract extension as European clubs assess their options ahead of January. Whether Aston Villa submit a formal offer remains uncertain.