What Benfica needs to do to sign Nelson Semedo in the summer

Benfica has been linked multiple times over the past few months with a return to the club by former Seixal academy graduate Nelson Semedo who will become a free agent at the conclusion of the season. Benfica are looking to shore up the right back position and Semedo could be the ideal solution to a position that needs an upgrade.

Here’s an analysis of what it would take for Benfica to secure his signature.

Negotiate a Pre-Contract Agreement:

Since Semedo’s contract with Wolves expires on June 30, 2025, Benfica can already be in negotiations for a pre-contract agreement with the player before season's end, as permitted by FIFA regulations for players in the final six months of their contracts. This would secure Semedo’s commitment to join Benfica without a transfer fee. 

Address Salary Constraints:

A significant hurdle is Semedo’s current salary at Wolves, reportedly £80,000 per week, which exceeds Benfica’s financial structure. Benfica would need to convince Semedo to accept a substantial pay cut to fit within their wage budget. Alternatively, they could explore creative contract structures, such as performance-based bonuses or a signing-on fee, to make the deal more attractive. 

Leverage Emotional and Professional Appeal: 

Semedo has expressed a lifelong connection to Benfica, stating his dream is to retire at the club. Benfica should emphasize this emotional tie, highlighting the opportunity to return to his boyhood club, play in the UEFA Champions League, and potentially end his career in Lisbon. The presence of former Wolves manager Bruno Lage, who knows Semedo well, could also be a persuasive factor.

Compete with Other Interested Clubs:

Benfica faces competition from clubs like Inter Milan, who could offer Semedo a role as a deputy to Denzel Dumfries, and potentially lucrative deals from Saudi Arabian clubs. Benfica must present a compelling case, focusing on playing time, leadership opportunities (Semedo is Wolves’ captain), and the chance to play in Europe’s elite competitions, which Wolves cannot offer. 

Plan for Squad Integration:

Benfica should assess how Semedo fits into their tactical setup under Bruno Lage, particularly as a solution for the right-back position. Portuguese media highlight Semedo’s experience, leadership, and versatility (ability to play on the left) as key strengths, making him a “perfect” fit. Ensuring a clear role for him, potentially as a starter, will be crucial to finalize the deal. 

Monitor Wolves’ Retention Efforts:

Wolves’ manager Vitor Pereira has expressed a desire to keep Semedo and there is some openness from Semedo to stay. Benfica should stay informed on any contract extension talks between Wolves and Semedo, as Wolves may try to retain him, especially given his importance as captain and his consistent performances. If Wolves fail to secure an extension, Benfica’s chances improve. 

By focusing on these steps - early negotiations, salary adjustments, leveraging Semedo’s emotional ties, outmaneuvering competitors, ensuring squad fit, and tracking Wolves’ moves—Benfica can maximize their chances of signing Nelson Semedo as a free agent in the summer of 2025.

Benfica linked again with Genk striker Tolu

Benfica is once again eyeing Tolu Arokodare, the talented striker from Genk, for a summer transfer. The Nigerian forward's impressive performances have caught the eye of top European clubs. Last season, Benfica showed interest in Arokodare, and now they may look to step up their pursuit when the transfer window opens this summer. 

The race for Arokodare has heated up with giants like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund also being linked with also making a move for the striker. Securing a young, scoring forward like Arokodare could boost Benfica’s attack and add long-term value to their squad.

Benfica's interest in Arokodare is not new. Several reports from last season confirmed the club had their eyes on the striker. They admired his physical presence, goal-scoring record, and age—just 24, with room to develop. Some sources even suggested lightweight negotiations with Genk about a possible deal. The club's scouts saw Arokodare as a player who could grow into a leading striker, fitting into Benfica's plans for their attacking line.
 

With the current form of starting XI striker Vangelis Pavlidis, Arokodare would be brought in to back up the Greek international but with Andrea Belotti and Zeki Amdouni loans coming to an end and Benfica looking to move on from Arthur Cabral, the club will need more fire power up front for next season.

Arokodare currently is the top scorer in the Belgian League this season with 17 goals and has scored 22 goals across all competitions while providing 7 helpers in 40 games of action. No dollar figures are yet being disclosed but Benfica may need to go as high as €20M to secure an agreement with Genk and get the player's signature.  

Benfica headed to their 39th Taca de Portugal Final

Benfica stamped their pass to the Taca de Portugal final on May 25, 2025, at the Jamor, where they will face cross-town rivals Sporting. Benfica will be looking to capture their 27th title and first since the 2016-17 season.

Benfica easily handled fourth division side Tirsense in the two leg affair, winning 9-0 on aggregate with scores of 5-0 and 4-0 in the contest. Benfica decided to rest just about all their starters for the second leg, which is important with four games left in the season and the club battling to capture the Portuguese title.

Hats off to Tirsense for making the semi-finals, but they were no match for Benfica, who totally outclassed them in the tie. Tirsense can take solace in the fact that they will receive over €50,000 for making the semi-final stage of the competition, which will go a long way towards the club's finances.

Benfica and Sporting will meet in their second consecutive competition final, having met earlier this year in the Taca da Liga Final that Benfica captured in January. The two club's are also level on points for the Portuguese title and have what may be a title deciding game in Week 33 at the Luz.

What it would take for Benfica to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s star right-back, is set to become a free agent in July 2025, as his contract is due to expire on June 30, 2025. Multiple reports indicate that Real Madrid are the front runners to sign him, with negotiations reportedly advanced and a five-year deal on the table. 

For Benfica to sign Alexander-Arnold, they would need to overcome significant challenges and meet specific conditions. Here’s an analysis of what it would take for Benfica to secure his signature.

Outmaneuvering Real Madrid and Other Competitors:

Real Madrid are heavily favored to sign Alexander-Arnold, with sources like The Guardian, BBC Sport, and Sky Sports reporting that he is keen on joining the Spanish giants and has rejected Liverpool’s contract offers. Other clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich, could also enter the race, given his status as one of the world’s best right-backs.

Benfica must offer a compelling project that rivals Real Madrid’s prestige, history, and competitive prospects. Benfica would need to highlight their consistent participation in the UEFA Champions League (they’ve qualified for the last several seasons) and their track record of developing and selling talent to top clubs (e.g., João Félix, Rúben Dias, Darwin Núñez).

Present a unique selling point, such as guaranteed playing time, a leadership role, or a tailored tactical system that maximizes Alexander-Arnold’s creative abilities. Real Madrid’s squad includes Dani Carvajal and other defensive options, which could create competition, whereas Benfica could position Alexander-Arnold as their undisputed star.

Financial Incentives:

As a free agent, Alexander-Arnold will command a significant signing-on fee, high wages, and performance bonuses. Real Madrid, with their financial muscle, are reportedly offering a lucrative package, and Liverpool’s rejected contract proposals suggest Alexander-Arnold’s expectations are high. Benfica, while financially stable, operate on a smaller budget compared to elite European clubs.

Benfica must offer a competitive signing-on fee, potentially in the range of €10-20 million, to match or approach what Real Madrid or other clubs might propose. This would be a significant investment for Benfica, who typically focus on developing younger players.

Structure a wage package that aligns with Alexander-Arnold’s market value, likely around €200,000-300,000 per week, which would make him the highest-paid player in Portugal. Benfica could offset this by including performance-based bonuses (e.g., for Champions League qualification or goals/assists). 

Highlight the financial benefits of living in Portugal, such as lower taxes compared to Spain or England, and the potential for future moves to top clubs, which could preserve his market value.

Tactical and Sporting Fit:

Alexander-Arnold is a unique player known for his exceptional passing, crossing, and set-piece ability, often operating as a playmaker from the right-back position or even inverting into midfield. Benfica’s current system under manager Bruno Lage (or any new manager in 2025) would need to suit his skill set, and the club would need to convince him of their competitive ambitions. 

Benfica must demonstrate a tactical setup that maximizes Alexander-Arnold’s strengths. Benfica typically play a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, with attacking full-backs, which could suit him. They would need to assure him of freedom to influence games creatively, similar to his role under Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot at Liverpool.

Emphasize their domestic dominance (Benfica have won the Primeira Liga in multiple recent seasons) and their ambition to compete in the Champions League. Provide a clear pathway for Alexander-Arnold to maintain his status as an elite player, potentially by positioning him as a key figure in a squad rebuild or a new era for the club.

Addressing Alexander-Arnold’s Ambitions:

At 26, Alexander-Arnold has already won every major trophy with Liverpool, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Club World Cup. His move is likely driven by a desire for a new challenge, possibly in a different league, and to continue competing at the highest level. Real Madrid offer the chance to win more Champions League titles and play alongside stars like Jude Bellingham, his England teammate. Benfica, while a prestigious club, may struggle to match this allure. 

Benfica must pitch a vision of Alexander-Arnold becoming a legend at the club, potentially as a captain or talisman, similar to how he’s revered at Liverpool. They could emphasize the opportunity to dominate Portuguese football and make history in Europe.

Highlight the lifestyle benefits of living in Lisbon, a vibrant city with a favorable climate, and the chance to experience a new culture, which aligns with comments from Wayne Rooney (BBC Sport) about Alexander-Arnold seeking a fresh challenge abroad.

Timing and Negotiation Strategy:

Alexander-Arnold has been free to negotiate with overseas clubs since January 1, 2025, and reports suggest Real Madrid are close to finalizing a deal. Benfica would need to act swiftly to disrupt these talks. 

Benfica will need to initiate contact with Alexander-Arnold’s representatives immediately, leveraging the fact that no deal with Real Madrid is fully signed. Capitalize on any potential hesitation from Alexander-Arnold, such as concerns about his legacy at Liverpool or doubts about leaving his boyhood club. Benfica could position themselves as a less pressured environment compared to the intense scrutiny at Real Madrid.

Explore an early transfer in June 2025, taking advantage of FIFA’s new rules for the Club World Cup, which allow squad registrations from June 1. Benfica, who are participating in the tournament, could offer Alexander-Arnold the chance to join early for a small fee if Liverpool agree to release him before his contract expires. 

Overcoming Fan and Club Sentiment:

Alexander-Arnold is a Liverpool academy graduate and vice-captain, with a deep connection to the club and its fans. His potential move to Real Madrid has already sparked backlash from some Liverpool supporters, and a move to Benfica, a less glamorous destination, might be seen as surprising or underwhelming by fans and pundits.

Benfica should frame the move as a bold career choice, emphasizing the clubs history (38 Primeira Liga titles, two European Cups) and their role as a stepping stone to global stardom. They could draw parallels to players like Ángel Di María, who used Benfica as a platform before moving to Real Madrid.

Engage with Alexander-Arnold’s camp discreetly to avoid public backlash, ensuring negotiations remain professional and respectful to Liverpool’s legacy.

Realistic Assessment:

While Benfica are a prestigious club with a strong European pedigree, signing Alexander-Arnold would be a monumental challenge due to Real Madrid’s advanced negotiations and their status as one of the world’s biggest clubs. Benfica’s chances would hinge on a significant financial commitment, which could strain their budget. A compelling vision that appeals to Alexander-Arnold’s desire for a new challenge.

Given the current trajectory, Benfica’s prospects appear slim. However, if they can offer a standout financial package, a starring role, and a clear path to continued success, they could theoretically enter the conversation and push for Alexander-Arnold to become the club's new star right back for years to come.

What would it take for Benfica to sign Bernardo Silva in the summer

For Benfica to sign Bernardo Silva from Manchester City in the summer of 2025, several factors would need to align, based on the current situation and reported details.

Financial Considerations:

Release Clause: Silva has a €50 million (£42.6 million) release clause in his Manchester City contract, which runs until June 2026. Benfica are reportedly unwilling to pay this amount, as it stretches their financial capabilities.

Transfer Fee Negotiation: Manchester City might be open to a lower fee, given Silva’s age (30) and the fact that he’ll be in the final year of his contract. However, City would still likely demand a significant sum, and Benfica would need to secure funds, possibly through player sales or external investment.   

Salary Adjustment: Silva currently earns £300,000 per week at Manchester City, far beyond Benfica’s wage structure. He would need to accept a substantial pay cut, which reports suggest he’s willing to consider for a return to his boyhood club. 

Player’s Intent:

Silva has expressed a long-standing emotional connection to Benfica, where he developed in their academy from age eight. He’s indicated openness to returning before his career ends, and recent reports suggest he’s “seriously considering” the move.  

However, Silva has also previously emphasized wanting to compete at the highest level, which could make him hesitate if more competitive clubs (e.g., Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, or Real Madrid) show interest. 

Manchester City’s Stance:

 
City are undergoing a squad rebuild, with key players like Kevin De Bruyne already departing. They may not block Silva’s exit if their valuation is met, especially as his contract nears its end.  

Pep Guardiola values Silva highly, but the club’s need to refresh the midfield (with interest in players like Florian Wirtz or Tijjani Reijnders) could make them more open to a transfer.  

Benfica’s Strategy and Appeal:

Benfica see Silva as a symbolic signing, not just a sporting one, potentially replacing Angel Di Maria and boosting the club’s profile.  

They’ve already initiated talks with Silva’s representatives and Manchester City, showing proactive intent. However, they’d need to convince Silva that returning to the Primeira Liga aligns with his ambitions, given its lower competitive level compared to the Premier League or other top leagues. 

Benfica’s financial constraints mean they might propose a deal with add-ons or a lower upfront fee, which would require City’s cooperation.

Competition from Other Clubs: 

Silva has been linked with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid, all of whom could offer higher wages and more competitive environments. Benfica would need to outmaneuver these clubs, likely relying on Silva’s emotional ties to his homeland and club.  

His “preferred destination” being Benfica, as reported, gives them an edge, but this could shift if a bigger club makes a firm offer. 

Critical Perspective:

While the narrative paints Benfica’s pursuit as driven by nostalgia and Silva’s willingness to return, the financial gap remains a significant hurdle. Benfica’s academy model thrives on developing and selling talent, not splashing cash on high-profile returnees, which makes the €50 million clause or even a reduced fee a stretch. 

Additionally, Silva’s comments about staying at City or competing at the highest level in recent months suggest he might prioritize sporting ambition over sentiment if a top club enters the race. The reported talks could also be a negotiation tactic by Silva’s camp to leverage better terms elsewhere or with City.

In Summary:

Benfica would need to secure a reduced transfer fee (well below €50 million), convince Silva to take a major pay cut, and fend off competition from wealthier clubs. Silva’s emotional connection and City’s openness to a squad overhaul are in Benfica’s favor, but their limited budget and the Primeira Liga’s lower competitive appeal could complicate the deal. 

Progress in negotiations, as reported, suggests a deal isn’t impossible, but it hinges on financial creativity and Silva’s personal priorities going forward.

Benfica need to make decision on Amdouni

Zeki Amdouni joined Benfica during the summer transfer window on loan from Burnley for the season and now as the season winds down, Benfica will need to make a decision in May if they are to trigger the buy clause that is part of the agreement with Burnley.

Benfica paid €2M to Burnley for the loan move of the 26 year old Swiss international and it will cost the club €18M to make the move permanent if the club decides to retain the services of Amdouni for next season.

Amdouni has been a regular with Benfica, with the majority of his minutes coming in the role of a substitute but has contributed eight goals and provided three helpers in 1,213 minutes across all competitions.

Benfica staff have been happy with the contributions made by Amdouni this season but will need to make a decision if the price tag makes sense for the club moving forward. 

Benfica may be open into renegotiating the cost of the purchase with Burnley who paid €18.6M to Basel in the summer of 2023 to acquire Amdouni.

 

 

Benfica get a big win over Tirsense in Taca semis

Benfica went into their Taca de Portugal game with the hope of getting a comfortable advantage in the first leg before returning home to the Estadio da Luz and the club did just that, handing Tirsense a 5-0 drubbing with a starting XI of mostly back ups.

Tirsense did themselves no favours opening the scoring for the visiting Benfica when Joao Campos deflected a pass into his own goal. Benfica would then get goals from Joao Rego, Gianluca Prestianni, Arthur Cabral and Andreas Schjelderup, all but assuring their appearance in the season ending Taca de Portugal Final.

Benfica would face the winner of the Sporting-Rio Ave semi-final in which Sporting have the advantage after a 2-0 victory in the first leg. The second legs of the competition will both take place on April 23 and the two finalists will be known by the conclusion of that day.

Benfica earn big win over Porto to land in top spot

Benfica went to the Dragao in Week 28 and came out of the contest with a convincing 4-1 victory over their rapidly declining rivals behind a hat trick from striker Vangelis Pavlidis and this victory coupled by a draw earlier today by Sporting against Braga, sees the Eagles gain sole possession of top spot by two points with six weeks left in the 2024-25 season.

The league title could come down to the two Lisbon clubs facing off head to head in Week 33 at the Estadio da Luz if it is not decided before hand. Benfica will be seeking revenge from an earlier season 1-0 loss to Sporting in their final game of 2024 and have come back from as much as six points back at the conclusion of Week 20 in Portugal.

Remaining Benfica games as they vie for another Portuguese League title, involves four games against teams in the top half of the league.

Week 29 vs Arouca

Week 30 at Guimaraes 

Week 31 vs AVS

Week 32 at Estoril

Week 33 vs Sporting

Week 34 at Braga

How Ronaldo could make move to Benfica in the summer

For Benfica to make a hypothetical move for Cristiano Ronaldo this summer they would need several key steps and considerations to align. Here's how such a transfer could potentially happen...

Contractual Status:

Ronaldo is currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, with his contract set to expire in June 2025. Once his contract ends, he becomes a free agent and is free to sign with any club. This is a significant advantage for Benfica, as they wouldn't need to negotiate or pay a fee, making the move financially more manageable.

Financial Considerations:

Ronaldo is one of the highest paid athletes in the world, earning a substantial salary at Al-Nassr. Benfica while a prominent club in Portugal can not match his current earnings. For this move to work, Ronaldo would have to agree to a significant serious pay cut. This could be feasible if he prioritizes other factors, such as returning to Portugal or playing in a competitive European league, over financial gain as he nears the end of his career.

Motivation and Sentiment:

As a Portuguese native, Ronaldo might have a sentimental desire to return to his home country and play for a club like Benfica, especially late in his career. Benfica is a competitive team in the Portuguese League and regularly qualifies for European competitions like the Champions League. This could appeal to Ronaldo's competitive drive and desire to remain at the elite level. While he started his career at Sporting, a rival club, the chance to contribute to Portuguese football and play in front of home fans could out weight any past affiliations. 

Physical Condition and Age:

Ronaldo is 40 years, which is an advanced age for a professional footballer, however he is renowned for his exceptional fitness and longevity. If he maintains his physical condition and continues to perform at a high level, he could still be a valuable asset to Benfica, particularly in a league that may be less physically demanding than some other top European leagues.

Marketability and Brand Value:

Even at 40, Ronaldo will likely attract interest from other clubs, including those in leagues aiming to elevate their profile or offering lucrative deals. Benfica would need to present a compelling project; whether its a competitive team, a leadership role, or a chance to cement his legacy in Portugal if he is to chose them over other suitors.

Loyalty and Rivalry Considerations: 

Ronaldo's professional career started at Sporting, a direct rival of Benfica, which could complicate a move to Benfica due to fan perceptions, personal loyalties or the fact that Sporting has named their academy after him. However football history shows players often cross rivalry lines, if Ronaldo is open to the idea and Benfica's vision aligs with his goals, this hurdle can be overcome.

Timing of the Transfer:

The European summer transfer window typically opens in July, shortly after Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr ends. As a free agent, he could negotiate and sign with Benfica during this period. Clubs often aim to secure key signings erly, so discussions could begin even before his contract officially ends.

Summary for Cristiano Ronaldo to join Benfica:

• His contract with Al-Nassr must expire in June 2025, allowing him to move as a free agent.
• He would likely need to accept a reduced salary to fit Benfica's financial structure.
• Benfica must offer an attractive project that appeals to his competitive and sentimental motivations.
• Ronaldo must remain physically capable of performing at a high level.
• Any rivalry concerns with Sporting would need to be navigated.
  

While this scenario is speculative, it is not impossible. Ronaldo has a history of surprising career decisions and a move to Benfica could be a fitting chapter to his illustrious journey, blending legacy, competitiveness and a return to his roots. Only time will tell the direction and chance of such a move.

Benfica fly into weekend's Classico with win over Farense

Benfica barely beat Farense 3-2 earlier today behind a brace from winger Kerem Akturoglu but now all eyes are on the big game against FC Porto. Both Benfica and Sporting have 65 points. With seven games left, the title race is super tight. This Classico match could have huge implications on who wins the Portuguese League.

Benfica's win over Farense showed some good things. It also showed areas where the club can improve, as the team needs to be ready for FC Porto. Against Farense, Benfica used their usual formation. They focused on attacking quickly and keeping the ball. Sometimes, the defense had problems. The Eagles need to fix this for the FC Porto game.

FC Porto are always a tough test and traveling to the Estadio do Dragao for this contest will present the club with a hostile environment as Porto look to exact revenge for an earlier season 4-1 loss to Benfica and will look to feed off the crowd in hopes of inflicting damage to Benfica's chase for the league title.

Sporting will also have their hands full this weekend as they face Braga, in a weekend that will have all four top league sides in action against one another. Benfica will hope for a positive result in Porto on Sunday with they hope that Braga can do the club a solid on Monday.