Brighton interest in Lautaro Rivero grows ahead of summer window

Brighton interest in Lautaro Rivero is gathering pace after fresh reports in Argentina placed the Seagulls among the clubs monitoring the River Plate centre-back ahead of the summer window.

According to River Noticias, Fabian Hürzeler’s side have added the 22-year-old to their shortlist, although no formal approach has yet been made. The defender is said to be firmly on Brighton’s radar as they continue their strategy of targeting emerging South American talent.

Rivero returned to River Plate in June 2025 after an 18-month loan at Central Córdoba and has since established himself as a regular starter. His form has reportedly led to him being described internally as an “indispensable player” under Marcelo Gallardo.

Tottenham Hotspur were linked with Rivero earlier this season, while Aston Villa were also mentioned as potential suitors in previous reports from South America. Neither club followed through with a winter move, but interest from the Premier League has not faded.

Brighton’s involvement fits a clear pattern. In recent years, the club have invested heavily in young South American prospects, developing them before significant sales. The departures of Moisés Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister for major fees underline that model.

Having followed Brighton’s recruitment approach closely over the past few seasons, it is evident that profile, resale potential and tactical intelligence matter as much as immediate impact. Rivero appears to tick those boxes.

Rivero is contracted at River Plate until December 2028, with a reported $100 million release clause, understood to be around €85 million. Realistically, any transfer would likely be negotiated below that figure.

River Noticias suggest Gallardo is aware of growing European interest and would prefer not to lose the defender so soon after his reintegration into the first team. However, River Plate’s position could soften if a substantial offer arrives in the next window.

As things stand, Brighton have not opened talks. The situation remains at scouting and evaluation stage.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions until a formal bid is submitted.

Brighton are expected to continue monitoring Rivero through the remainder of the Argentine season before deciding whether to advance negotiations in the summer 2026 window. Any concrete move would likely come after internal squad planning for 2026/27 is finalised. River Plate, aware of European interest, will be preparing for potential discussions, but no official talks are underway at this stage.