Is Borja Leaving River Plate? This European Giant Wants Him
Miguel Borja’s future at River Plate seems uncertain. Despite being the team's top scorer in 2024 with 31 goals across all competitions, the Colombian striker’s performance has dipped in the second half of the year, leading to his relegation to the bench in several matches. This situation, coupled with interest from CSKA Moscow, raises doubts about his continuity with the Núñez-based club.
The Russian team has reportedly made significant progress in negotiations to sign the striker, taking advantage of the fact that, as of January 1, 2025, his release clause will drop from $8 million to $4 million, an affordable figure for a club with their ambitions. Borja, who joined River in 2022 as one of the club’s marquee signings, has a contract running until December 2025. However, his departure could be part of a squad overhaul led by Marcelo Gallardo in his return as head coach.
In the first half of the year, Borja was a key player in River's attack, standing out as a reliable goalscorer. However, Gallardo’s return marked a shift in the team’s offensive dynamic. The coach has opted for other attacking options due to Borja’s declining efficiency in recent months, which has diminished his role as a starter. Nonetheless, Borja remains among the top scorers in the Professional League, with 11 goals, just two shy of the leader, Franco Jara.
CSKA Moscow’s interest is not an isolated case, as the Russian Premier League has become an attractive destination for South American players in recent years. Esequiel Barco, a former River player, is a recent example after joining Spartak Moscow in 2024. Although MLS teams like Inter Miami and Los Angeles FC have also shown interest, the Russian club appears to be in a prime position to secure the Colombian striker’s transfer.
Meanwhile, River Plate will wrap up their Professional League campaign this Saturday against Racing Club. This match could be one of Borja’s last appearances in the Millonarios’ jersey, as his potential departure would mark the end of a mixed spell at the club. For River, his transfer could open the door for a squad rebuild, while for Borja, it would be the start of a new chapter in his professional career.
