Racing Steps Into Race For Hernán López Muñoz, Complicating Move To Argentinos

As the Club World Cup takes center stage, Argentine clubs not involved are using the window to reinforce squads for the second half of the year. One name catching attention from both Racing and Argentinos Juniors is Hernán López Muñoz, the 24-year-old attacking midfielder currently at San Jose Earthquakes.

The player, who is Diego Maradona’s great-nephew, had been close to joining Argentinos, where family ties and personal wishes made it an appealing move. But a surprise twist emerged when Federico and Gonzalo Costas — sons of Racing manager Gustavo — coincidentally shared a flight back to Buenos Aires with López Muñoz after their holidays in the U.S. That informal encounter led to a direct call from Costas himself.

This isn’t Racing’s first interest in the Villa del Parque native. Even before the presidential elections at La Academia, when Juanfer Quintero’s future was uncertain, the former Bolivian national team coach had requested his pursuit as a potential alternative.

Despite Argentinos, led by president Cristian Malaspina, having an advanced negotiation, Racing has now entered with a formal offer: a loan deal with purchase option to San Jose Earthquakes, who bought out the full rights from River and Godoy Cruz in April 2024 for $7 million.

López Muñoz, a River youth product with strong spells on loan at Central Córdoba and Godoy Cruz, has played 37 matches in MLS, scoring nine goals and providing three assists. His attacking profile and current market value of $4 million (per Transfermarkt) make him an attractive prospect. Now, the decision lies with the Californian club and the player himself.