Benfica watch Monza striker Varela but what rights do they hold

 

Benfica are monitoring Gustavo Varela's explosive start at Monza. Reports disagree on whether a return is close and on what the Eagles can actually do.

From the Seixal Academy to Italy

Varela joined Benfica in January 2022, played from the Under-17s up to the B team, and made his first-team debut against Rio Ave in May 2024. Newly promoted Monza signed him permanently on 27 July until 2030, paying €2.5 million, with Benfica keeping 20 per cent of a future sale.

Buy-Back or Match Clause?

The extra clause is where the reports split. Record says it is a €9.5 million buy-back and claims Benfica are preparing to trigger it. A Bola says no decision has been made. It reports an undisclosed buy-back fee, expected to be around €10 million. Gianluca Di Marzio disagrees, saying no buy-back exists and that Benfica can only match other clubs' offers. Sapo Portugal likewise describes a right to match any offer.

Varela's Season and Career Path

Before the sale, Varela spent the 2025-26 on loan at Gil Vicente, scoring seven goals in 33 matches. Monza is his only club since leaving Benfica permanently in the summer. He has scored six league goals to date and sits second in Serie A's golden boot race.

What Next for Benfica?

Benfica reportedly feel Monza's style differs from what they want in their squad. They plan to assess the situation before deciding on how they will move forward. Until the contract details are confirmed, the buy-back versus match-clause question to date remains unresolved as various sources can not agree on exactly what it is.