Benfica in pursuit of Georgian gem from Saint-Etienne

Benfica has emerged as a front runner for Saint-Etienne's dynamic winger Zuriko Davitashvili. The 24-year-old Georgian international has dazzled in Ligue 2, netting 8 goals and providing 1 assist in 16 appearances, making him the club's top scorer.

Benfica reportedly tabled an €8 million bid, which was swiftly rejected by the French side, who value him higher. Competition is set to become fierce, with Everton, Besiktas and Fenerbahce also circling the versatile attacker known for his dribbling, progressive passes and long-range strikes.

Davitashvili's story adds some intrigue with prior links to manager Jose Mourinho as during his stint at Fenerbahce, Mourinho wanted to acquire the Georgian for the rebuilding Turkish giants but Saint-Etienne's €20 million demands ended talks between the two clubs.

For Benfica, landing Davitashvili could inject flair into their attack, especially with injuries mounting. Will Rui Costa seal the deal, or will rivals swoop in and acquire the player? The winter transfer window is slowly heating up!