Reports in Spain are suggesting that Valencia are tying up a deal for River Plate’s highly regarded midfielder, Matías Kranevitter ahead of a transfer in June. This would leave the 21-year-old available for River’s Copa Libertadores campaign in 2015 but crucially for Los Che secure one of Argentina’s prized assets ahead of the competition.

Under Gallardo in the first half of the Torneo Transicion, Kranevitter more than lived up to the expectations of a player who many tip to be the natural successor to Javier Mascherano in the Argentina midfield. In spite of his young age, Kranevitter is a calming influence in the middle of the pitch, equally able to break up play but with the passing ability to retain possession and initiate attacks.

Understandably, the youngster spoke earlier of his desire to make the move to Europe: “I would like to make the jump from River to Europe. The idea is to play in Argentina as I have been and then there. I hope I get the chance to play in Europe.”

It would appear Kranevitter will not have to wait long with Valencia striking early to secure his signature. With the player recently completing his Italian passport, he presents no difficulties with getting the paperwork and with River more than willing to listen to offers on their players, a deal should not have been difficult to strike.

Valencia’s sporting director is former Argentina defender, Roberto Ayala and he is said to have been responsible for the move for Kranevitter.

River knew that this transfer was inevitable and so if they can have Kranevitter back fit and in the midfield for next season and crucially the Copa Libertadores then perhaps all parties involved would be relatively satisfied.