Luis Zubeldía, the coach of Fluminense, is in search of a center striker as the team shifts its focus after failing in negotiations for Alexis Cuello, the top scorer at San Lorenzo. The Brazilian club has now turned its attention to Gabriel Ávalos of Independiente, who recently scored a stunning bicycle kick despite the team's loss to Independiente Rivadavia in Mendoza. There's growing speculation about whether Ávalos could be heading to Fluminense, raising questions on his future with the club.

Fluminense's initial offer for Ávalos was rejected, as they proposed a $3 million deal for the Paraguayan striker's full transfer, to be completed over two years. The situation is complicated by the reluctance of Gustavo Quinteros, the coach at Independiente, who is determined to keep his star player. Ávalos is enjoying his best form since joining Independiente, having scored three goals in the ongoing Apertura Tournament and also contributed several assists to his teammates.

As negotiations continue, the interest from Fluminense highlights the interconnected nature of South American football, where players frequently move between clubs across the continent. The implications of this deal could not only affect the teams involved but also ripple through the league as substitutes and replacements come into play, potentially leading to shifts in performance and competitiveness within the tournament.