Richard Rios Transfer: Inter Eye €30m Deal for Palmeiras Midfielder

Richard Rios transfer talk has intensified after the Colombian’s breakout performances at the FIFA Club World Cup, where he helped Palmeiras reach the semi-finals and caught the eye of Europe’s elite. Inter Milan, always alert to emerging talent in South America, have now placed the 23-year-old at the top of their January wish list and believe a bid in the region of €30 million could be enough to tempt Palmeiras into negotiations despite a daunting €100 million release clause.

Why the Richard Rios transfer excites Inter

The Nerazzurri’s midfield already boasts technical quality, but Simone Inzaghi wants a dynamic ball-winner who can also progress play. Rios, who averages 2.3 successful dribbles and 3.1 tackles per 90 minutes in Brazil’s Série A, ticks both boxes. Scouts were particularly impressed by his mature showing against Saudi champions Al-Ahli in Jeddah, where he completed 92 percent of his passes under pressure.

Release clause versus real-world price

Palmeiras inserted a triple-digit clause soon after signing Rios from Guaraní, yet club sources admit a structured €30 million package with performance add-ons would be “hard to refuse.” Inter are exploring a deal similar to the 2020 transfer of Gabriel Barbosa, which included future-sale bonuses that sweetened Flamengo’s coffers.

That spicy exchange with Otamendi

Rios’ rising profile was boosted by a now-viral moment in Colombia’s World Cup qualifier against Argentina. After a crunching tackle, veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi allegedly taunted him. Rios fired back, quipping, “You can’t even run anymore,” before sprinting past the Benfica man moments later. The clip endeared him to supporters and underlined his fearless personality—an attribute Inter’s dressing room could use during a tight Scudetto race.

How the Richard Rios transfer would fit Inzaghi’s system

Inter’s 3-5-2 relies on aggressive mezzali who shuttle between boxes. Rios’ blend of stamina and creativity allows him to slide into that left-sided role currently rotated between Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Davide Frattesi. His ability to press high, win the ball, and immediately surge forward mirrors the profile Inter lost when Marcelo Brozović departed for Saudi Arabia.

Financial implications

Despite public claims of economic stability, Inter remain cautious spenders. CEO Beppe Marotta is prepared to offload Stefano Sensi and loan Kristjan Asllani to free up salary space. A January move would therefore likely be a loan with obligation to buy—an approach that satisfied São Paulo in the recent Lucas Moura negotiations.

Competition from rival clubs

Juventus have scouted Rios twice since October, while Premier League surprise package Brighton also sent recruiters. Yet Inter hope their South American network, positive history with Palmeiras, and the allure of immediate Champions League football will tip the scale in their favour.

Player profile at a glance

• Age: 23
• Nationality: Colombian
• Positions: No. 8 / No. 6 hybrid
• Key stats 2023: 5 goals, 7 assists, 88% pass accuracy
• Strengths: Ball recovery, progressive carries, long-range shooting
• Weaknesses: Over-zealous tackling (6 yellows in 15 matches)

What Palmeiras stand to lose

The Brazilian giants have built a reputation for developing and selling talent at a premium—think Gabriel Jesus and Endrick. Losing Rios mid-season could hamper their Copa Libertadores ambitions, but the windfall would finance academy upgrades and provide funds to retain teen sensation Estevão.

Timeline and next steps

Inter are set to dispatch sporting director Piero Ausilio to São Paulo in early January. Talks will involve agent Álvaro da Silva, who maintains a strong relationship with Marotta after engineering Juan Cuadrado’s free transfer last summer. Should personal terms be agreed—rumoured to be a five-year contract worth €2.2 million net per season—the Richard Rios transfer could be finalised before the Supercoppa Italiana.

Opinion: A risk worth taking

Inter have built their recent successes on smart recruitment—discovering Barella’s next partner feels like the club’s top priority. Rios brings youth, tenacity, and a winning mentality cultivated in Brazil’s intense environment. €30 million may look steep now, but given his ceiling and potential resale value, the Richard Rios transfer could be the bargain of the winter window. If Marotta pulls it off, expect the Nerazzurri midfield to stay dominant for years.