River Plate plan Everton talks over Carlos Alcaraz return

River Plate are preparing to open negotiations with Everton over a potential move for Carlos Alcaraz, with talks scheduled to take place next week.

The Argentine club are embarking on a significant squad rebuild ahead of the new season and have identified the Everton midfielder as one of their priority targets.

According to reports from Argentina, manager Chacho Coudet has specifically requested the club explore a deal for Alcaraz as he looks to strengthen his attacking options.

River Plate are now expected to seek clarity on Everton's position and determine whether a loan agreement or permanent transfer could be possible.

Reports from Argentina indicate Alcaraz has moved high up River Plate's transfer shortlist.

The 23-year-old is viewed as a player capable of adding creativity and attacking quality to Coudet's squad during a summer expected to bring major changes.

River officials have reportedly arranged a meeting with Everton representatives next week to begin discussions and assess the feasibility of a deal.

The purpose of the meeting will be twofold.

Firstly, River want to establish whether Everton would consider a loan arrangement. Secondly, they intend to discover the transfer fee required if a permanent move is preferred.

Given Alcaraz's limited role last season, the discussions are likely to provide an early indication of Everton's plans.

A move would represent a return to familiar territory for Alcaraz.

The midfielder came through River Plate's academy before earning a move to Europe in early 2023 when Southampton paid close to €14 million for his services.

His career has taken several turns since then.

After spells with Juventus and Flamengo, Everton initially signed him on loan before making the move permanent in a deal worth around €15 million.

Despite those transfers, River have continued to monitor his progress closely.

Having followed River Plate's transfer strategy in recent years, the club have often sought opportunities to bring talented academy graduates back when circumstances become favourable.

Alcaraz fits that profile perfectly.

The midfielder endured a frustrating campaign under David Moyes.

Injuries limited his availability and he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter when fit. Reports suggest he played only around 20% of the available Premier League minutes throughout the season.

Those struggles have inevitably created uncertainty around his long-term future at Goodison Park.

Recent reports have suggested Everton are evaluating several players this summer and may be willing to consider offers for Alcaraz if suitable proposals arrive.

That stance could encourage River Plate as they prepare formal discussions.

The planned meeting between River Plate and Everton should provide a clearer picture of whether a deal is realistic this summer.

Everton's valuation will likely be the most important factor. While a loan may prove easier to negotiate initially, River Plate could also explore a permanent transfer if the financial conditions are favourable.

For Alcaraz, the coming weeks may determine whether he continues fighting for a place in the Premier League or returns to Argentina to relaunch his career in familiar surroundings.

Would a return to River Plate be the perfect move for Carlos Alcaraz, or should he remain at Everton and compete for a bigger role next season?