Benfica turn to left back for their next reinforcement

Benfica have turned their full attention to landing a new left-back before the summer transfer window slams shut, immediately following their blockbuster signing of midfielder Joao Palhinha today. With the defensive midfield role securely reinforced by the €14 million acquisition from Bayern Munich, manager Marco Silva wants to add experienced depth at the left back position. The player should be able to provide a different style than current starting left back Samuel Dahl.

The Eagles have actively explored a sensational move for Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, weighing up a potential €20 million bid to pride him away from Spain. However, with a deal for Balde increasingly viewed as unlikely due to valuation gaps, Benfica are simultaneously keeping other options warm. The club is evaluating late market alternatives to ensure they bring in a robust competitor before the deadline passes.

One of the names that has popped up in the last 48 hours is Al-Qadsiah left back Souffian El Karouani who has been left out of match day squads due to the Saudi league having limits on foreign players dressed for league games. Al-Qadsiah are said to be open to a loan or permanent transfer of the player. This situation could present an ideal opportunity for Benfica to secure a player who logged a staggering 18 assists at Utrecht last season.

Currently, Benfica is relying on youth academy prospect Jose Neto to back up Dahl and although they also have Rafael Obrador on the books, he has been loaned out again for the season. Benfica manager Marco Silva is hoping that the club can bring in a quality back over the next couple of weeks. Could free agent Portuguese international Raphael Guerreiro's name enter the mix... we shall see.