Benfica's ambition comes with a significant financial commitment. The club is negotiating Joao Felix's return from Chelsea, with reports suggesting an offer of approximately €21-€25 million for a 50% stake in the player, though Chelsea values him at around €60 million. Felix, a product of Benfica's youth academy, carries a hefty release clause of $370 million, but the club is leveraging his willingness to return and his limited role at Chelsea to negotiate a more feasible deal.
When it comes to Thiago Almada, Benfica has proposed €28-€35 million for a 60% share, though Botafogo, his parent club, is holding firm at €40 million. The negotiations are complicated by Almada's loan stint at Lyon and ownership dynamics involving John Textor but Benfica are hoping to take advantage of Lyon's financial difficulties which include a need to raise €100M to avoid relegation to Ligue 2.
Lastly in regards to Enzo Barrenechea who is currently with Aston Villa, he is valued at around €10-€12 million, a figure Benfica is prepared to meet despite competition from FC Porto and Valencia. These investments reflect Benfica's strategy to secure long-term assets while navigating financial constraints and rival interest.
The trio's statistical output from the 2024-25 season underscores their potential impact. Joao Felix, split the season between Chelsea and Milan, featured in 41 matches, accumulating 1,965 minutes. He scored 10 goals and provided 2 assists, showcasing his flair as a forward and his ability to influence games despite inconsistent playing time. His experience in top leagues like the Premier League and Serie A could prove invaluable as Benfica targets a strong Champions League campaign.
Thiago Almada, during his loan at Lyon, played 20 games (1,209 minutes), scoring 2 goals and delivering 4 assists. His versatility in midfield and contribution to Lyon's European efforts highlight his potential to add creativity and dynamism to Benfica's midfield, which Benfica require, especially with the departure of attacking midfielder Orkun Kokcu to Besiktas.
Enzo Barrenechea, meanwhile, impressed in his loan spell with Valencia, making 32 appearances (2,247 minutes), scoring 1 goal and registering 2 assists. His defensive midfield presence and consistency in La Liga suggest he could be a stabilizing force, particularly as a potential successor to Florentino Luis, who is also rumoured to be on his way out of Lisbon.
Acquiring these players aligns with Benfica's goal to reclaim dominance in the Portuguese League and excel in Europe. Joao Felix's homecoming could rekindle his early promise and boost fan morale along with team identity, though his high salary demands pose a challenge.
Thiago Almada's international pedigree, including his role in Argentina's World Cup success, brings a global perspective to the squad, potentially elevating its competitiveness in the Champions League.
Enzo Barrenechea's youth and work rate offer a cost-effective solution to add midfield depth, addressing the departure of key players like Orkun Kokcu. Together, this trio could form a balanced attack and midfield, blending offensive creativity with defensive solidity.
The transfers are not without hurdles. Chelsea's reluctance to lower Felix's price, Botafogo's firm stance on Almada and competition for Barrenechea could delay or derail these current deals that are being worked on.
Additionally, Benfica's financial limitations, exacerbated by the need to qualify for the Champions League group stage, require careful budget management. However, the club's optimism, fueled by player interest and strategic negotiations involving agents like Jorge Mendes, suggests a proactive approach to the season.
Benfica's pursuit of Joao Felix, Thiago Almada and Enzo Barrenechea represents a calculated gamble to reshape its squad for the better. If successful, this trio could transform Benfica into a formidable force, blending nostalgia with new talent for the 2025-26 season.
While financial and competitive challenges loom, the potential reward of a revitalized team makes this a compelling narrative to watch as the transfer window unfolds during these summer months.
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