Argentina's Messi regen makes final decision on his future – Barca still want him

Claudio Echeverri will not extend his contract with River Plate.

"My representative spoke to the [River] president, many things were said about him not answering the calls, but they were always in contact. I am not going to sign a new deal, but I am going to stay here for a year or six months," the 17-year-old has told the media.

The Argentine wonderkid is reportedly going to sign for a big European club next year. Barcelona are said to be among the most interested clubs alongside Manchester City and Chelsea.

River Plate have rejected Barca's first bid for the attacking midfielder. The Catalans aren't ready to pay the €25m release clause straight away – they would rather do it through add-ons.

Claudio Echeverri is an Argentine supertalent who has enjoyed a memorable campaign at the U17 World Cup. His stats for Argentina's youth side are something else – 13 goals and 5 assists in 22 games for the U17 team.

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