Grêmio Signs Juan Nardoni: Contract Details & Transfer News

Porto Alegre, Brazil – Grêmio has officially secured the signing of Argentine midfielder Juan Ignacio Nardoni from Racing Club, bolstering their squad for the upcoming Brazilian football season. The transfer, finalized after a period of intense negotiation, sees Grêmio pay a fixed fee of $8 million, with the potential for an additional $2 million in performance-based bonuses.

The deal brings to an end speculation surrounding Nardoni’s future, with several clubs previously expressing interest in the 23-year-old playmaker. Racing had reportedly fielded offers from Palmeiras and Santos last year, but resisted selling until reaching an agreement with Grêmio that met their valuation – approximately $9 million at current exchange rates.

Nardoni arrived at Racing in mid-2023 from Unión de Santa Fe for a reported $6 million. During his time with the club, he amassed 126 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 7 assists. He also contributed to three titles: the 2023 International Super Cup, the 2024 South American Cup, and the 2025 South American Recopa. His departure marks a significant return on investment for Racing, who will more than recoup their initial outlay.

Grêmio’s pursuit of Nardoni comes after a busy transfer window, with the club already having invested approximately R$ 109 million (roughly $21.8 million USD) in four new players. This demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening the team ahead of a challenging season. The club had initially been linked with Guido Rodríguez, but shifted focus to Nardoni after complications arose in those negotiations.

Nardoni is expected to arrive in Porto Alegre on Monday, February 9th, 2026, where he will undergo a mandatory medical examination. Upon successful completion of the medical, he will sign a long-term contract with Grêmio, keeping him at the club until December 2029.

The acquisition of Nardoni is intended to inject dynamism and energy into Grêmio’s midfield. He is viewed as one of the most promising midfielders in the Argentine league, possessing qualities that coach Gustavo Costas believes will be invaluable to the team’s tactical approach. While Nardoni played in Racing’s recent 3-1 defeat against Tigre on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, reports initially suggested his absence was to protect him from potential injury during negotiations. Costas later clarified that the decision was tactical, as he experimented with a 3-4-3 formation.

The transfer process wasn’t without its hurdles. Financial details initially proved to be a sticking point, delaying the official announcement. However, both clubs ultimately reached a compromise that satisfied their respective demands. The agreement, finalized on Friday, February 6th, 2026, allows Grêmio to add a highly sought-after player to their ranks.

Grêmio’s aggressive recruitment strategy signals their ambition for the season. Despite having 16 players depart the club, the team is actively reshaping its roster with a focus on quality and potential. The addition of Nardoni, alongside other recent signings, suggests a clear intent to compete at the highest level in Brazilian football. The club is also reportedly pursuing Leonel Pérez of Huracán, potentially pairing him with Nardoni in midfield.

Racing, meanwhile, faces a challenging period. They have lost all three of their Apertura tournament matches so far, suffering defeats against Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, Rosario Central, and Tigre. The departure of Nardoni adds to the team’s difficulties, but the financial windfall from the transfer will provide resources for further squad rebuilding.