Toronto FC Targets Lanzini as River Exit Nears

Manuel Lanzini appears set to leave River Plate, with MLS side Toronto FC expressing interest in signing the Argentine midfielder. Although his contract runs until December, River is already working on facilitating his departure after Marcelo Gallardo informed the player he won’t be part of his plans.

Toronto, which competes in Major League Soccer but is based in Canada, recently lost Italian star Lorenzo Insigne, whose contract expired on June 30. The club is now looking for a creative replacement, and Lanzini has emerged as a potential candidate.

The 32-year-old returned to River in mid-2023 amid high hopes, following years in the Premier League and appearances with Argentina's national team. But his second spell at Núñez never fully took off: 59 matches, just two goals, and one assist. Despite standout performances in two Superclásicos at La Bombonera, he struggled to make a consistent impact.

River would prefer to terminate his deal by mutual consent, though a paid transfer is also on the table. With Gallardo no longer counting on him, a move to MLS could offer Lanzini the fresh start he needs.