Nicolás Otamendi is preparing to depart from Benfica during the winter transfer window to make a return to Argentina with River Plate. His primary motivation for the move is his aspiration to participate in the Club World Cup. While River Plate's interest has been longstanding, the conditions for the transfer appear to be coming together now. Discussions with Benfica have yet to take place, as Otamendi still has six months left on his current contract. There is a chance that a symbolic transfer fee might be agreed upon, or Otamendi could choose to terminate his contract, which is set to expire next summer.

Nicolás Otamendi has made the decision to depart from Benfica and join River Plate in Argentina. His objective is to take part in the Club World Cup. This move is in line with his enduring wish to finish his career in Argentina. At the age of 36, Otamendi's contract with Benfica is set to expire in 2025. Reports from both Portugal and Argentina indicate that he plans to leave the Lisbon club during the winter transfer window.

River Plate has shown renewed interest in signing Nicolás Otamendi, who is currently playing for Benfica. Journalist Renzo Pantich indicated that Otamendi's transfer to River Plate is almost certain for January 2025, provided there are no unforeseen circumstances. The negotiations with Benfica could involve a symbolic transfer fee, or Otamendi might choose to terminate his contract, which expires in the summer of the following year. Otamendi is among the highest-paid players at Benfica, and his departure would help reduce the club's financial burden. Otamendi is known to be a fan of River Plate, and his family is supportive of a move to Buenos Aires, which would allow him to play for the historic club before retiring.

Nicolás Otamendi is strongly associated with a move to River Plate. Despite being a fan of the Buenos Aires club, concerns about the lack of security in Argentina are significant factors in his decision-making process.

Nicolás Otamendi, who serves as a defender and captain at Benfica, conveyed his strong support for River Plate and discussed the possibility of representing the club before concluding his career. He indicated that he feels comfortable at Benfica and acknowledged that returning to Argentina is becoming increasingly challenging. Otamendi's contract with Benfica extends until June 30, 2025, and he underscored his commitment to his current club. He referred to having a good relationship with River Plate's management but expressed a desire to avoid creating false hopes among their supporters. He mentioned that a decision regarding his future would be made after his contract concludes.

River Plate showed interest in Nicolás Otamendi. The Argentine central defender commented on this possibility. However, he ended up renewing his contract with Benfica for two more seasons.

Nicolás Otamendi mentioned that returning to Argentina, specifically to River Plate, is a very complicated scenario due to the lack of security in the country. He received a proposal to play for River Plate recently, which he refused. He also discussed the possibility with the president, who insisted that he could go to River Plate, but Otamendi decided against it for his family's safety and because he had renewed his contract with Benfica.

Otamendi is being considered by River Plate as an alternative for their defense if the signing of Germán Pezzella fails.

Ariel Ortega, a former international Argentine midfielder and idol of River Plate, advises the club to attempt to sign Nicolás Otamendi, a 36-year-old center-back who has one more year on his contract with Benfica. Otamendi is currently playing very well for Benfica and is considered a key player by coach Roger Schmidt.