Benfica eye Wolverhampton defender Toti Gomes as defensive reinforcement

Benfica have quietly been linked with interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers centre-back Toti Gomes amid potential defensive reshuffles at the Estadio da Luz this summer. The 27-year-old, who is Wolves' club captain is said to be looking to depart the Wolves after their relegation from the Premier League this past season. His emergence as a target for Benfica could have something to do with the possible exits of key defenders Tomas Araujo or Antonio Silva. Club captain Nico Otamendi is already set to depart the club when his contract ends at the end of this month.

Born in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, Toti began his youth career at Fontainhas (2014–2016), before moving to Cascais and then going to Estoril’s academy (2017–2018). He made his senior debut for Estoril in 2019, appearing in three league matches. In the summer of 2020, Wolves acquired him from Estoril for a measly €789K and loaned him to Swiss side Grasshoppers for the next two seasons where he excelled with 50 appearances and 3 goals, helping the club secure promotion from the Swiss Challenge League.

Since breaking into Wolves’ first team in 2022, Toti has amassed over 123 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals, while providing four helpers. A versatile left-footed defender who is capable of playing both centre-back or left-back, he scored his first Premier League goal in a 1-0 win over Aston Villa in 2023. Reliable and consistent, he earned the Wolves captaincy in August 2025 and has earned two senior caps for Portugal.

Benfica value his experience, leadership qualities and composure under pressure. New manager Marco Silva knows him well from opposing him in England. Toti would add depth to a squad lacking a veteran presence and is a perfect replacement for the departing Otamendi. He would bolster a backline aiming for success in both the Portuguese League and Europe. A return to Portugal might just be what the doctor orders for Toti, despite his past soft spot for rivals FC Porto. 

Benfica linked again with pending Ajax free agent striker

Benfica have rekindled their interest in Dutch striker Wout Weghorst as the 33-year-old prepares to become a free agent with his Ajax contract set to expire on June 30, 2026. The experienced forward is attracting attention from several clubs, including a potential move under new club manager Marco Silva in Lisbon.

This past season playing for Ajax, Weghorst has contributed across all competitions, netting 9 goals while providing 4 assists in 34 appearances (2,193 minutes), primarily in the Eredivisie where he started 21 of 29 games. His physical presence, aerial ability, and hold-up play have provided a reliable focal point despite not hitting peak scoring form.

Weghorst came through the academy of amateur side NEO Borne before progressing via DETO and Willem II. His senior career has taken him across the Netherlands as well as Europe with Weghorst spending time at AZ Alkmaar, Wolfsburg, Burnley, with loans at Besiktas, Manchester United and Hoffenheim before returning home and signing on with Ajax in the summer of 2024.

Benfica view Weghorst as an ideal low risk reinforcement. With the potential departure of current striker Vangelis Pavlidis, his proven experience, leadership, and work rate would add another option up front in the attack. Jose Mourinho was reportedly drawn to his profile during the winter window as a target man capable of linking play and delivering in big moments. Now with Marco Silva at the helm, Weghorst's name is appearing once again alongside Benfica's shopping list and a free transfer would represent smart business for the Eagles who are seeking domestic and European competitiveness. 

Benfica show renewed interest in Lyon left back

Benfica are closely monitoring Lyon left-back Abner Vinicius, with the Brazilian defender viewed as a potential summer target. Lyon reportedly consider him negotiable, opening the door for negotiations as the Lisbon club seek to bolster their defensive options.

Benfica’s interest in the 26-year-old dates back several years. They had monitored him during his impressive spell at Athletico Paranaense, before he moved to Real Betis in January 2023. Abner eventually joined Lyon on in the summer of 2024 from Real Betis for €8 million and signed a five-year contract until 2029.

During the 2025-26 season, Abner established himself as a key player for Lyon. He featured prominently in Ligue 1 action, making 26 appearances and chipping in with 3 goals and 2 assists in 2,160 minutes. He provides attack with his pace, crossing and overlapping runs and is also strong in the defensive side of play. Abner appeared in 7 Europa Leage contests, scoring once while providing a helper.

A move to Benfica this summer could represent an exciting turn for Abner who is a proven talent with that fits Benfica’s model of signing high-potential South Americans who can thrive in Europe and deliver in Portuguese League and European competitions.