Buenos Aires, Feb 3 (NA) – Racing midfielder Juan Nardoniño played in last Monday's match, which ended in a 3-1 defeat against Tigre in the third round of the Apertura tournament, and is reportedly close to leaving the 'Academy' to join Brazil's Grêmio. According to the Argentine News Agency, the Porto Alegre club has made an offer of $8 million—plus two more if certain objectives are met—for the 23-year-old midfielder, who is expected to leave the club soon. This way, the player who came through the youth ranks of Unión de Santa Fe is one signature away from leaving the Avellaneda institution to head to the South American country after the 'albiceleste' board, led by Diego Milito, has reportedly accepted the proposal. Nardoni arrived at Racing in mid-2023 for $6 million from 'Tatengue', and after 126 matches, 5 goals, 7 assists, and 3 titles (2023 International Super Cup, 2024 South American Cup, and 2025 South American Recopa), he seems to be in his final moments under Gustavo Costas. Initially, it was speculated that the midfielder's absence in the defeat against 'Matador' was to preserve the player in case of an injury that could derail negotiations. However, the coach later confirmed it was a tactical decision, aiming to test the 3-4-3 formation. Meanwhile, Racing is struggling in the Apertura: they have not earned any points so far and have suffered three consecutive losses against Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, Rosario Central, and Tigre itself.
