River Plate begin talks for Brighton midfielder Facundo Buonanotte

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Facundo Buonanotte has become a priority target for River Plate, with reports from Argentina claiming negotiations have now begun over a potential move.

The Seagulls playmaker spent the second half of the season on loan at Leeds United and, despite not being a guaranteed starter, continues to attract significant interest from South America.

What initially appeared to be tentative interest is now developing into a serious pursuit.

According to Argentine journalist Germán Balcarce, discussions regarding Buonanotte's future are already underway.

The update marks the strongest indication yet that River Plate are actively attempting to bring the midfielder back to Argentina.

Interest in the Brighton player has existed for several months, but recent reports suggest the Buenos Aires club are now working on the structure of a possible deal.

Financial realities mean River are unlikely to pursue a permanent transfer immediately.

Reports from Argentina suggest the club's preferred solution is a loan agreement, potentially including an option to buy.

That formula has become increasingly common in River's transfer strategy and would allow them to strengthen the squad without committing to a major upfront fee.

With Brighton reportedly valuing Buonanotte at around €16 million, a permanent deal would currently be difficult for the Argentine giants to finance.

Another factor encouraging River is the player's openness to the idea.

Reports claim Buonanotte has not dismissed the possibility of returning to Argentine football at this stage of his career.

The midfielder was recently spotted in Buenos Aires alongside his representative Kristian Bereit, who is understood to have strong relationships within River's hierarchy.

Bereit has previously worked on major transfers involving the club and could play an important role in facilitating discussions.

River's interest appears to be driven from multiple levels within the club.

Manager Eduardo Coudet reportedly views Buonanotte as an ideal fit for his tactical approach, valuing the midfielder's creativity and ability to operate between defensive and midfield lines.

Meanwhile, Argentine outlet Soy del Millo claims sporting director Pablo Longoria has become one of the driving forces behind the pursuit.

The report even describes Longoria as being "obsessed" with signing the Brighton midfielder.

According to those claims, River's sporting project has already been presented to the player's representatives as negotiations continue.

River Plate are expected to continue discussions with both Brighton and the player's representatives as they attempt to find a deal structure that works for all parties.

For Brighton, the decision will centre on whether another loan move is the best route for Buonanotte's development or whether the Argentine can still play a significant role in the club's long-term plans. What is clear is that River's interest has moved beyond admiration and into active negotiations.

Should Brighton loan Facundo Buonanotte to River Plate, or would another season in European football better aid his development?