Boca Juniors is setting its sights on the 2026 Copa Libertadores and has identified a high-priority target in the transfer market: acquiring a top-tier center forward. Following the unsuccessful attempt to bring in Miguel Borja, who opted for Cruz Azul in Mexico, the Football Council, led by Juan Román Riquelme, has initiated a “Plan B” focused on international options.
Having made progress in securing winger Marino Hinestroza, the management is now actively searching for two specific player profiles abroad: a traditional “number 9” striker and a versatile forward capable of operating across the front line.
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Decline of Key Players
Boca’s urgency is amplified by a 2025 season where the goal burden predominantly fell on Miguel Merentiel. The situation for his fellow forwards is concerning: Edinson Cavani wrapped up a year plagued by injuries, appearing in just 24 matches and netting a mere 5 goals—a performance that significantly underdelivered on expectations for the Uruguayan star.
Additionally, Milton Giménez is enduring a severe goal drought, causing him to lose favor in the coach’s plans, while young talent Valentino Simoni, a standout in the Reserve team, is seen as a promising prospect who may be sent out on loan to gain valuable experience.
Objective: The Seventh
As the sole Argentine club seeded in the Libertadores draw, Boca’s management realizes they cannot afford to lack offensive options. Preseason training will commence on January 3, and the objective is to have new signings integrated into the coaching staff from day one, aiming to restore their goal-scoring prowess on the international stage.
This article has been translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
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