Eder Alvarez Balanta has been a long-time target for Sampdoria and despite the Colombian defender struggling for fitness this season, interest remain. The youngster could be set for a move to the Serie A in the coming weeks.
Fitness concerns
The 22-year-old has struggled with numerous physical problems in recent months, which meant the he was unavailable for selection for Colombia at the Copa America. Despite these injury concerns, reports indicate that a move overseas is looking increasingly likely, as he's been attracting interest from various European sides.
Sampdoria leading chase for Balanta
According to several reports, the player's agent has received several offers to move to several European clubs during the summer transfer window, with offers coming from Italy, Spain and England. Sampdoria, hovewer, appear to be the favourites to land him as they've been scouting him heavily over the last year and tney value him as an important player that could make an impact on both sides of the pitch.
Sampdoria already tried to pry him away from River Plate during the January transfer window but a deal couldn't be finalized as River were not happy with the offer made by the Serie A side. Things could change now, however, as Sampdoria are reported to be intent on signing him whatever the cost.
Balanta has been an important player for River Plate, side where he arrived in 2013 and even though he lost his place in the squad due to the injuries, he is one of the club's most desired assets due to his age, potential and international experience.
Alvarez Balanta was part of the Colombia squad that reached the quarterfinals in the 2014 World Cup. He has played in six games for River Plate during the 2015 campaign. The defender scored his first goal for the club in March during a Copa Libertadores meeting with Juan Aurich.