Luis Suarez rules out potential River Plate transfer

Veteran striker Luis Suarez has ruled out a potential move to Argentine outfit River Plate, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The former Liverpool and Barcelona forward will not be joining Marcelo Gallardo’s side following their exit from the Copa Libertadores.

“I was really tempted despite my plan to stay in Europe because River were pushing a lot to sign me, but the deal has collapsed as they’re now out of the Copa Libertadores,” Suarez said.

The Uruguayan international’s future has been up in the air following the end of his contract with La Liga side Atletico Madrid.

Despite falling down the pecking order at the Wanda Metropolitano, Suarez netted 13 goals in 45 appearances last season, proving he still possesses the skill to perform at the top level.

River Plate are one of several clubs keen on snapping up the 35-year-old as they look to add a lethal goalscorer to their ranks following the departure of Julian Alvarez to Manchester City.

Speaking on a potential deal for Suarez, head coach Marcelo Gallardo said: “I talked to him, I know him, I have a good relationship – I have a lot of respect for the player and the person,” via Mundo Deportivo.

“I communicated to find out what was going to become of his life and if he wanted to come to Argentine football, to an institution like ours, to have competition and get well to his desired World Cup.”

Motivated by Los Millonarios’ chances in the Copa Libertadores, Suarez was reportedly open to the move and prepared to call time on his stint in Europe.

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However, in a thrilling all-Argentine affair, River Plate were knocked out of the continental showpiece in the round of 16 after losing 1-0 on aggregate to Velez Sarsfield.

Suarez has enjoyed an illustrious 16-year stay in Europe since signing for Groningen from Uruguayan side Nacional in 2016.

He has cemented his name as one of the finest marksmen to grace the game and boasts 398 goals and 184 assists during his career.