Who is Richard Rios? The ex-futsal player wanted by Man Utd

Cameron Smith

Updated: 20 Aug 2024 15:43 BST
4 min read

Richard Rios, Colombia, Man Utd — © IMAGO

Manchester United are interested in signing Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios, according to reports in Brazil.

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The Colombia international enjoyed a fantastic Copa America and his form at the tournament has attracted significant transfer attention, including from the Old Trafford outfit.

But, who is Rios and why do Man Utd want to sign him?

What position does Richard Rios play?

Rios is a central midfielder. He is capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or as a number eight.

How good is Richard Rios?

Incredibly, Rios started his career as a futsal player and wasn’t scouted by Flamengo until the age of 19. He caught the eye during the 2018 South American U20 futsal championship and the Brazilian giants quickly snapped him up.

From there, Rios has enjoyed a dramatic upward trajectory, culminating in his immense Copa America.

Due to his futsal background, Rios possesses incredible close control and given his position as a deep-lying midfielder, this enables him to evade pressure in his own half.

In addition, the Palmeiras midfielder is an excellent ball carrier and although he isn’t a particularly progressive passer, Rios makes up for this with his ability to drive forward with the ball at his feet.

His passing will need to improve if he is to make the step up to European football, however.

Additionally, the combative Colombian doesn’t shirk his defensive responsibilities and is a workhorse in the middle of the park.

Richard Ríos went from being under the radar to putting in an impressive Copa América for Colombia 🇨🇴

Could he be in for a big move in the summer? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/nNIC4w5IDv
— Golazo America (@golazo_america) July 16, 2024

Due to Rios’ desire to drive forward with the ball and his energy, he would likely benefit from playing next to a more defensive-minded partner in midfield. This was on show at the Copa America, with Jefferson Lerma or Mateus Uribe deployed next to Rios.

However, the Colombian has demonstrated his potential for several years at Palmeiras and he is certainly good enough to play regularly in Europe.

Whether he is of Man Utd quality is less certain.

What clubs are interested in Richard Rios?

Man Utd have made contact with Palmeiras to discuss a possible summer move for Rios, as per Goal Brazil. The Red Devils are reportedly ready to lodge a €20 million bid for the Colombian midfielder.

Serie A giants AC Milan are also known admirers of Rios.