Benfica may have a solution at striker at Rio Ave

As the winter transfer window gets set to open, Benfica under Jose Mourinho is reportedly looking to add another striker and a bold move might just be an acquisition of Rio Ave striker Clayton. 

The 26 year old Brazilian has been a revelation in the Portuguese League this 2025-26 season, netting 10 goals and providing 2 assists in 15 appearances (1,236 minutes). His expected goals stands at 6.1, showcasing clinical finishing, while his progressive carries (1.66 per 90) highlight his dynamic threat when on the field.

With Vangelis Pavlidis leading the line at the club while boasting 14 goals in 15 league games, Benfica needs some more reliable depth as current backups Franjo Ivanovic (3 goals in 13 games, 528 minutes) and Henrique Araujo (0 goals in 5 games, 23 minutes) have struggled to make an impact when called upon.

Clayton's proven scoring record of 24 goals over what amounts to a season and a half at Rio Ave, offers Mourinho a more goal-hungry option off the bench. His physicality and take on ability could complement Pavlidis perfectly, adding versatility to challenge for titles.

If sealed, this transfer could ignite Benfica's campaign, blending Mourinho's tactical nous with Clayton's firepower. It is unknown what the move may cost Benfica but €10M is the likely start point of any negotiations. 

Benfica bolsters defense with Sidny Cabral signing

In a strategic move ahead of the January 2026 transfer window, Benfica has secured the services of promising right back Sidny Cabral from Amadora. The 23 year old Cape Verdean-Dutch defender, born in Rotterdam, will join the Eagles for a reported €6 million fee with an additional €2.5M in add ons, Amadora will retain 10% of the players rights on a future sale.

This acquisition underscores Benfica's ambition to strengthen their back line amid a competitive Portuguese League season. Cabral's journey to prominence is an inspiring one. Starting his career in the Netherlands, he honed his skills before moving to Germany with clubs like Rot-Weiss Essen and Viktoria Koln before moving to Amadora as a free agent this past summer.

Cabral has showcased his versatility with Amadora, blending defensive solidity with attacking flair, he has scored five goals while providing three assists across all competitions in 16 games of action and 1,357 minutes of play. He has been able to accomplish this while at a bottom of the table club which makes his performances that much more impressive.

Benfica's interest stems from Cabral's ability to provide depth and competition at right back, especially with injuries and poor performances plaguing the squad. This signing could be a game changer for Benfica's title aspirations and European campaigns. 

As Cabral dons the red and white jersey in January, expect him to inject fresh vigor into the team. Welcome to Lisbon, Sidny, here is hoping that the future looks bright

Three things Benfica could use for Christmas

With the holiday season upon us, Benfica fans are hoping that Santa Claus will bring the club the right gifts this season, for a club that currently sits in third spot in the league.

Benfica fans are dreaming of gifts under the Christmas tree that could reignite their title challenge in the Portuguese League. With the January transfer window looming, here are three positions the club desperately needs to strengthen.

First, a reliable right back. Current options like Alexander Bah and Amar Dedic have shown promise, but injuries and inconsistencies highlight the need for depth for better depth at the position. Targeting a versatile defender like Sidny Cabral from Amadora could provide competition and stability on the flank.

Second, another striker to complement the attack. While Vangelis Pavlidis currently sits atop the goal standings in Portugal, the club's other options have been less than impressive when called upon in Franjo Ivanovic and Henrique Araujo. Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema's name has been mentioned on multiple occasions and he would bring proven goal scoring prowess if the club is willing to open the war chest.

Finally, a dynamic winger to inject pace and creativity. With long term injuries to Bruma and Dodi Lukebakio, the club needs to inject some younger blood and have been mentioned as one of the interested clubs  for River Plate winger Ian Subiabre. 

These additions could make 2026 a merry year for the Benfica fans, Hey Santa, are you listening?