River Plate make Al Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou their top transfer target

River Plate have made Al Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou their leading target as they prepare for the possible departure of young goalkeeper Santiago Beltran.

The Argentina club are assessing whether they can sign the Morocco international during the next transfer window, with Bounou currently identified as their preferred replacement.

Argentine journalist Hernan Castillo said Bounou is the only goalkeeper River Plate are pursuing at present, describing him as the club’s “first, second and third choice” for the position.

River Plate have already begun initial contact and held early discussions with people close to Bounou. The purpose of those conversations is to establish the goalkeeper’s position and determine whether negotiations over a move to Argentina could begin in the coming period.

The club’s interest is based largely on Bounou’s extensive international experience. It is also linked to his previously expressed desire to play for River Plate, known as the Millonarios, at some stage of his career.

Bounou spoke about the possibility of joining River Plate after the World Cup, saying: “It does not depend on me, but if the opportunity arises at some point, it would be a good thing.”

The 33-year-old remains under contract with Al Hilal until the middle of 2028. Any potential departure would therefore depend on the Saudi club’s position, as well as on negotiations between the two clubs.

River Plate are positioning Bounou as their sole option to replace Beltran if the young goalkeeper leaves. The club want to strengthen the goalkeeping position with a player who has significant experience at international level.