Journalist German Garcia Grova reported on the social network X that River Plate is in open negotiations with Spartak for the return of 27-year-old Argentinian attacking midfielder Esequiel Barco, who wishes to leave the Moscow club for personal reasons. According to sources cited by Grova, the player's potential return to Argentina is considered not to be easy. Barco's current contract with his club is valid until the summer of 2027. The Transfermarkt portal lists his market value at €16 million. The player has 4 caps and 1 goal for Argentina U23. Other clubs, including Independiente, AEK Athens, Cruzeiro, and Boca Juniors, have also been linked with him.