Benfica prioritizes Cruzeiro centre-back Jonathan Jesus

Portuguese giants Benfica have made Cruzeiro’s 22-year-old centre-back Jonathan Jesus a priority target. The Brazilian is seen as an ideal replacement for Antonio Silva, who joined Bournemouth for €25 million, adding depth with the free agent departure of Nicolas Otamendi at the end of the season.

Reports indicate Jesus’ agent is in Lisbon for talks with Benfica officials, including Rui Costa. The player, under contract until June 2029 with a €100 million release clause, has attracted strong interest. Real Sociedad offered €15 million, which Cruzeiro rejected, with the Brazilian club reportedly seeking at least €20 million. Benfica are prepared to match or exceed the €15 million figure. Other interested clubs include Real Betis and Valencia from La Liga, while Zenit previously made an approach.

Signed from Ceara in mid-2024 for €1.43 million, Cruzeiro purchased 90% of his economic rights. Jesus has rapidly established himself as a regular at Cruzeiro, the right-footed defender is comfortable on both sides of the central defense. In 2025 he featured in 31 matches, scoring once and providing one assist. This season, he has already made 26 appearances across all competitions with one goal, delivering consistent defensive solidity that would strengthen Benfica’s back line for domestic and European challenges.