DREAM COME TRUE: Kevin Castaño reveals lifelong River Plate passion ahead of multimillion-dollar transfer

 Colombian midfielder admits "I've been a River fan since childhood" as he prepares to join the Argentine giants

A transfer driven by passion

River Plate has finally secured the signature of Kevin Castaño after extended negotiations that went down to the wire in the transfer window's final days. The Colombian midfielder, currently leaving Russian club Krasnodar, stunned supporters with a heartfelt revelation about his connection to his new club: "I'm truly a River fan since childhood, this is an enormous dream for me, that's the truth," he confessed in an audio message shared with a River-affiliated journalist.

A significant investment for the Buenos Aires powerhouse

The River Plate leadership made a substantial financial commitment to acquire the services of the 24-year-old midfielder. The deal was closed at approximately 12 million dollars, making it one of the most expensive transfers in the Argentine market during 2025. This figure reflects the high value River places on the Colombian international, seeing him as a crucial piece for their midfield puzzle.

Filling a critical gap in midfield

Castaño arrives to strengthen a position that has lacked consistency throughout the current season. While Santiago Simón, Giuliano Galoppo, and Rodrigo Aliendro have rotated as partners for Enzo Pérez in midfield, the Colombian appears to be the definitive solution that River has been searching for. His international experience with the Colombian national team positions him as a fundamental piece in the tactical scheme moving forward.

A transfer that almost collapsed

Negotiations between River and Krasnodar faced several uncertain moments. The player himself acknowledged that "we all made a tremendous effort—my team, myself", suggesting that the talks had become so complicated that the transfer appeared on the verge of collapse. However, the player's determination and River's persistence ultimately overcame the obstacles just in time.

When might he make his debut?

Castaño's journey includes a long flight from Russia to Argentina, with arrival expected Tuesday morning at Ezeiza Airport. After completing his medical examinations and signing his contract, he will immediately join training sessions.

With match fitness from preseason and two matches already played in the Russian Premier League, he could be available to debut this weekend against Deportivo Riestra. However, his first appearance might be delayed if called up by Néstor Lorenzo for the Colombian national team, which would cause him to miss the Copa Argentina match against Ciudad de Bolívar on March 19. In that case, his official presentation at the Monumental stadium might only occur on March 30 against Rosario Central during matchday 12 of the Apertura Tournament.

The emotion of a fan now wearing his beloved team's colors

"I'm truly emotional about joining River," Castaño revealed in the audio that quickly spread among River Plate supporters. His declaration of love for the club's colors instantly created an emotional connection with the fanbase, who now eagerly await his debut to welcome a player who arrives not only for his footballing qualities but also for his deep identification with River Plate's spirit.

Source: Mendoza en Noticias