Giovanni Simeone will continue to play for Torino next season, despite reported interest from Argentinian side River Plate. The 30-year-old forward had publicly expressed a desire to return to his boyhood club, where he began his career, but has ultimately agreed to remain with the Serie A outfit. The decision follows a meeting between Simeone and Torino president Urbano Cairo, along with sporting director Gianluca Petrachi.
Cairo was reportedly resolute in his determination to retain Simeone, resisting approaches from River Plate. Simeone enjoyed a productive 2023-24 season with Torino, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in 32 Serie A appearances. His form made him a target for River Plate, who were hoping to bring the Argentinian international back to Buenos Aires.
Simeone had previously indicated his wish to complete a return to River Plate, framing it as a desire to bring his career full circle. However, those plans have been postponed indefinitely, with the player now focused on the upcoming season with Torino. He will be a key figure for new manager Ignazio Abate, tasked with improving upon last season’s goal tally.
Torino are also actively pursuing other transfer targets as Abate begins to shape his squad. The club is reportedly interested in Mattia Liberali, a midfielder currently at Catanzaro, and has already begun discussions with the Serie B side to ward off competition. Liberali has a release clause of €6 million, with 50% of any fee going to his former club, AC Milan. Torino are also tracking Facundo Bernal of Fluminense as a potential addition to their midfield options. The club’s focus is now on strengthening the squad ahead of the new campaign, with Simeone leading the attack.
