Gonzalo Montiel, the 27-year-old right-back who achieved worldwide fame as part of Argentina's victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is reportedly being offered to São Paulo FC by his current club, Sevilla. The news was revealed by journalist Arnaldo Ribeiro, noting the added intrigue surrounding Montiel's potential transfer could significantly impact both the player and the Brazilian club's ambitions going forward.
With 2025 rapidly approaching, São Paulo, also known as Tricolor Paulista, is actively seeking to bolster its roster for the upcoming season. Current reports suggest the team is not only interested in Montiel but is also considering other options within the market to fill the right-back position. Their search has been prompted by key players like Rafinha not renewing their contracts and Moreira’s impending exit, leaving only Igor Vinícius as the primary option.
Despite Montiel’s accolades and experience, including scoring the decisive penalty kick during the World Cup final against France, his time at Sevilla has been less than ideal. He has struggled for consistent playtime, with only eight appearances this season and limited visibility since returning from his loan to Nottingham Forest, where he featured 19 times last year.
The dynamics of the potential deal are complicated. São Paulo is reportedly exploring the possibility of securing Montiel on loan to avoid the high price tag associated with his transfer. The Argentine defender's market value is estimated around €4.5 million, translating to approximately R$28.7 million, figures recognized as steep for São Paulo’s current financial situation.
This backdrop of financial caution is accentuated by concerns about Montiel's salary demands, which have been described as high by Gabriel Sá of the Arquibancada Tricolor. He noted, "The salary requested by the staff of the lateral is considered high. Other laterals have also been offered on the market, and São Paulo is analyzing the possibilities." This statement highlights the complexity surrounding the negotiation, showcasing how they are balancing the desire for quality signings with financial realities.
Even as negotiations proceed, Montiel remains determined to secure more playing time, intensifying his desire to move. The Brazilian league could present him with the chance to reclaim his status as a starter, which is highly sought after as he aims to maintain his place within the national team setup.
Historically, Montiel is no stranger to significant pressure on the pitch. His performances at both the club and international levels—including his decisive role at the UEFA Europa League final where Sevilla triumphed—have solidified his reputation. Fans continue to speculate on his fate as his appeal to the São Paulo board grows stronger, pointedly underscoring the potential value he would add to their roster.
For now, the negotiations involving Gonzalo Montiel and São Paulo seem poised between optimism and complexity. If the club can find agreeable terms, this move could rejuvenate their defense and provide Montiel with the competitive consistency he craves. According to Ribeiro’s report, the interest is mutual, but the fine details will determine the outcome.
São Paulo's management continues to weigh their options, with Montiel being one of several players under evaluation. The outcome of this prospective deal remains to be seen, yet all eyes are now focused on how negotiations will evolve over the coming weeks.
