Benfica show renewed interest in Lyon left back

Benfica are closely monitoring Lyon left-back Abner Vinicius, with the Brazilian defender viewed as a potential summer target. Lyon reportedly consider him negotiable, opening the door for negotiations as the Lisbon club seek to bolster their defensive options.

Benfica’s interest in the 26-year-old dates back several years. They had monitored him during his impressive spell at Athletico Paranaense, before he moved to Real Betis in January 2023. Abner eventually joined Lyon on in the summer of 2024 from Real Betis for €8 million and signed a five-year contract until 2029.

During the 2025-26 season, Abner established himself as a key player for Lyon. He featured prominently in Ligue 1 action, making 26 appearances and chipping in with 3 goals and 2 assists in 2,160 minutes. He provides attack with his pace, crossing and overlapping runs and is also strong in the defensive side of play. Abner appeared in 7 Europa Leage contests, scoring once while providing a helper.

A move to Benfica this summer could represent an exciting turn for Abner who is a proven talent with that fits Benfica’s model of signing high-potential South Americans who can thrive in Europe and deliver in Portuguese League and European competitions.

Benfica officially announces Marco Silva as new manager

In what turned into a whirlwind of developments in Portugal, Benfica has officially announced the appointment of Marco Silva as the club's new head coach. The move comes just hours after Jose Mourinho’s move to Real Madrid was made official, Real triggered the €15 million release clause following Florentino Perez’s re-election. Mourinho, who provided stability during his brief tenure at the Estadio da Luz, departs for a second spell with the Spanish giants. 

The 48 year old Silva returns to his homeland on a two-year contract with an option for a third year. The highly regarded Portuguese tactician leaves Fulham after five seasons, during which he transformed the Cottagers from Championship winners to a solid mid table Premier League side.

The move marks Silva’s first managerial role in Portugal since the 2014–15 season, when he guided Sporting to a third place finish in Portugal and captured the Taca de Portugal with Sporting, the club’s first major trophy in seven years. He had earlier success at Estoril which included promotion and a strong campaign in the top flight before his move to Sporting.

Throughout his career, Silva has secured three major trophies, the 2011–12 Portuguese Second divistion title with Estoril, the 2014–15 Taca de Portugal with Sporting and the 2015–16 Greek Super League title with Olympiacos. His track record also features strong Premier League performances and consistent player development.

Benfica fans can expect an energetic, attacking style from Silva, who favors a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation emphasizing quick transitions and high pressing. Known for tactical adaptability and man-management, he is expected to bridge the gap to rivals Sporting and FC Porto in next seasons title race while looking to make a mark in Europe. His return to Portugal injects fresh ambition into a Benfica side eager to reclaim domestic supremacy.

The appointment signals a new era at the club. With his proven ability to overachieve and deep knowledge of the Portuguese game, Marco Silva arrives as a pragmatic yet exciting choice to build on Mourinho’s foundations and the club's hope is for him to chase silverware immediately.

Benfica will need to move quick if they are to land Portuguese international

Benfica are moving forward in negotiations to sign Portuguese defensive midfielder Samu Costa from Mallorca, according to multiple reports. The 25-year-old has emerged as a prime target for the Eagles as they look to bolster their midfield ahead of the upcoming new season.

Samu, a combative and technically gifted player, offers the physicality, tactical intelligence, and ball-winning ability that Benfica covet. His performances have drawn comparisons to top defensive midfielders, making him an ideal fit for a club seeking to dominate domestically and compete in Europe. His recent call-up to Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup further enhances his appeal.

Mallorca’s relegation from La Liga at the end of the 2025-26 season has accelerated Costa’s likely departure. Facing financial pressures in the second tier, the island club is expected to cash in on some of their key assets. Samu, who joined Mallorca from Almeria in the summer of 2023 for €3 million, is now valued significantly higher, with reports suggesting a fee in the region of €12-15 million plus add-ons.

Born in Aveiro, Portugal, Samu's youth career began at Beira-Mar (2008–2013), followed by stints at Gafanha and Palmeiras in Portugal, before joining Braga’s academy in the summer of 2016. He progressed to Braga B and made his senior debut with Braga before a successful loan and permanent move to Almeria, where he impressed with over 100 appearances for the club.

A move to Benfica could prove transformative but Benfica know that there will be a lot of eyes watching World Cup 2026 and a strong performance by Samu at the competition could see his price tag soar. This would introduce higher profile clubs with more resources then what the Lisbon club could offer. Missing out on the Champions League next season is doing the club no favours when looking to attract some top signings for next season like Samu.

Marco Silva wants to bring Fulham star to Lisbon with him

Benfica are on the verge of securing Marco Silva as their new head coach, following Jose Mourinho’s imminent departure to Real Madrid. Fulham confirmed this week that Silva will leave Craven Cottage after five successful seasons, paving the way for his return to Portugal.

The 48-year-old Portuguese tactician has reportedly agreed a two-year deal with an option for a third at the Estadio da Luz, positioning him as Mourinho’s successor. Mourinho, who guided Benfica to a third-place finish and Europa League qualification this season, has reportedly signed a contract to return to the Santiago Bernabeu. His formal unveiling is expected after Real Madrid’s presidential election.

Silva’s appointment marks a homecoming for the former right-back, who built a solid reputation in England by leading Fulham from the Championship to stable Premier League status. Benfica fans are optimistic about his attacking philosophy and tactical discipline aligning with the club’s ambitions to challenge rivals FC Porto and Sporting. In a notable early move, sources indicate Silva is eager to reunite with Fulham winger Harry Wilson. The Welsh international, whose contract expires this summer, is set to become a free agent. Silva views the 28-year-old as a key addition to bolster Benfica’s wide options and inject creativity into the attack. Wilson’s pace, crossing ability, and Premier League experience could prove valuable in European competitions. 

Negotiations are advancing rapidly, with an official announcement anticipated soon. Silva’s arrival signals a new era at Benfica as they aim to reclaim domestic dominance and have a great season in Europe's second class competition.
  

Benfica pressing for Wolfsburg striker Dzenan Pejcinovic

Benfica have emerged as one of the front runners to acquire 21-year-old Wolfsburg striker Dzenan Pejcinovic, according to reports from German sports magazine Kicker. The German-Montenegrin forward has impressed despite Wolfsburg’s relegation from the Bundesliga, sparking significant transfer interest.

Benfica have tabled a substantial offer, positioning them ahead of other suitors. However, domestic clubs including Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg are also monitoring the tall, powerful centre-forward. Pejcinovic's preference is to remain in Germany and ideally in the Bundesliga next season.

Wolfsburg's preference is to retain Pejcinovic, who they view as a key to an immediate promotion to the Bundesliga and are demanding well over €20 million for the player who has a contract until 2029.

Born in Munich, Pejcinovic came through Bayern Munich’s youth ranks before moving to Augsburg in 2017. Wolfsburg signed him in the summer of 2022 for €1.25M. 

Pejcinovic spent time on loan at Fortuna Düsseldorf during the 2024-25 seson, before returning to the Bundesliga during this past season, scoring 8 goals in 30 appearances and 12 goals across all competitions. The German U21 international offers physical presence, clinical finishing, and strong aerial ability. Pejcinovic is one of Germany’s brighter young strikers and his future could pass through Lisbon if Benfica gets the right price.

Benfica needs to let Samuel Soares take over in net if Trubin departs

As summer transfer speculation swirls around Anatoliy Trubin’s potential move to Tottenham Hotspur, Benfica needs to stand ready to elevate homegrown talent Samuel Soares to the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper position. The 23-year-old academy product, born on 15 June 2002 in Amadora, represents the club’s commitment to youth development and should be given every opportunity to finally claim the gloves on a permanent basis.

Standing at 1.90m, Soares joined Benfica’s setup in 2013 after starting at local club Tires. He rose through the ranks impressively, playing a starring role in the 2021-22 UEFA Youth League triumph, where Benfica's U19 squad defeated Red Bull Salzburg 6-0 in the final. He also helped secure the 2022 U20 Intercontinental Cup against Penarol. 

Soares has made 22 Portuguese League appearances for Benfica’s first team, across all competitions, showing composure and shot-stopping ability. In 2025-26, he featured in league and cup matches and provided five clean sheets in just six games of action. With Benfica B, he has logged 32 career games in the Second Division and earned Goalkeeper of the Month honours for October/November 2022.

Internationally, the Portugal U21 regular boasts 17 caps (as of mid-2025). He debuted in June 2022 in a 5-1 qualifier win over Belarus and represented his country at the 2023 UEFA European U21 Championship. Earlier youth levels add dozens of caps across U15 to U20 squads.

Samuel Soares’ promotion would mark a full-circle moment for the academy graduate. Athletic, reliable under pressure, and steeped in Benfica DNA, he embodies the club’s future between the posts. Fans and coaches need to see him as ready to lead the line in Europe and domestically. 

With a contract until the summer of 2027, Soares’ ascent could stabilize the goalkeeping department while showcasing Benfica’s renowned academy. The Eagles’ faithful should eagerly anticipate a changing of the guard as this local hero potentially takes flight as the Lisbon sides No. 1 keeper.

Torino set to activate buy clause for Rafael Obrador, making Benfica loan permanent

Italian club Torino is poised to make Spanish left-back Rafael Obrador’s loan from Benfica permanent by activating the €9 million buy option in his contract. The 22-year-old defender has impressed during his temporary spell in Serie A, earning a permanent move as the season concludes.

Obrador joined Benfica from Real Madrid in July 2025 for approximately €5 million on a deal until 2030. Limited to just one senior appearance (plus two for Benfica B) in the first half of the 2025-26 season, he was loaned to Torino in January 2026. In Serie A, the left-back has featured prominently, making around 16 appearances (mostly starts), scoring 1 goal and providing 3 assists while logging over 1,100 minutes. His solid defensive contributions, attacking overlaps, and consistency have strengthened Torino’s backline.

Benfica’s decision to facilitate the sale stems from squad planning and financial strategy. With limited playing time for Obrador in Lisbon and the club balancing books amid not participating in the Champions League next season, the €9 million fee represents a healthy profit on their €5 million investment. Real Madrid will continue to retain 50% of Obrador's rights.

For Torino, securing Obrador permanently bolsters defensive depth with a young, versatile talent suited to Serie A’s demands. The move signals the club’s ambition to build a competitive squad for the upcoming campaign. At 22, Obrador has significant upside, transitioning from Real Madrid academy prospect to a potential European performer. 

Benfica eye Galatasaray star Yunus Akgun as right-wing reinforcement

Benfica are reportedly advancing interest in Galatasaray winger Yunus Akgun, with recent reports indicating a formal proposal on the table. The 25-year-old Turkish international, who signed a contract extension until 2029 with the Turkish champions, has emerged as a prime target to bolster the Eagles' attacking options.

Akgun has enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 season for Galatasaray, contributing 7 goals and 9 assists in 28 Super Lig appearances in 1,824 minutes. The left-footed player plays as a right winger but can also play on the left wing or as an attacking midfielder. His move could cost Benfica anywhere from €15 to €25 million.

 

At Benfica, Akgun could challenge or rotate with Dodi Lukebakio in the right-wing role, or push young Gianluca Prestianni for a starting spot at the club. His arrival would inject pace and directness into a squad aiming to return to glory in Portugal and make their return to the Champions League. With his prime years ahead and proven pedigree, Akgun represents a smart, high-upside investment for Benfica’s ambitious project.

Benfica target Shakhtar winger Lucas Ferreira for next season

Benfica are showing strong interest again in 20-year-old Brazilian winger Lucas Ferreira as they look to strengthen their attack for the 2026-27 season. The Eagles return back for the youngster after having their bid during the winter window rejected by the Ukrainian club and view the highly-rated Shakhtar Donetsk talent as an ideal replacement for departing players, drawn to his explosive pace, technical ability, and versatility on both wings.

Ferreira, who joined Shakhtar from Sao Paulo in August 2025 for €10 million, has impressed in his debut campaign. In the 2025-26 Ukrainian Premier League, the left-footed attacker has scored 2 goals and provided 1 assist in 15 appearances (around 562 minutes played). He has also contributed in European competitions. Shakhtar are demanding around €18 million to sell the player, whose contract runs until 2030.

Benfica may need to meet or approach Shakhtar's current valuation to secure the young talent, who represents a long-term investment with significant upside. Benfica's winter offer of €12 million was rejected by Shakhtar as manager Jose Mourinho hoped to add the player to the squad. With likely departures of Dodi Lukebakio and Bruma this summer, the club will be light on the wing side and want to add some talent to the current squad.

Benfica eye Saint-Etienne winger Zuriko Davitashvili amid strong competition

Benfica continue to show keen interest in Saint-Etienne winger Zuriko Davitashvili as they seek to bolster their attacking options for next season. The 25-year-old Georgian international was linked to the Lisbon side during the winter window and has been a standout performer in Ligue 2 during the 2025-26 season, contributing significantly to Saint-Etienne’s promotion push.

In 29 league appearances (24 starts), Davitashvili has notched an impressive 14 goals and 5 assists, adding another goal and assist in cup competitions. His market value could hover around €10 to €15 million, though Saint-Etienne who is holding a contract until 2028 with the player could go as high as demanding €20 million or more to part ways with their star man.

Other clubs circling the dynamic right-footed winger include Everton, Fenerbahce, Besiktas, Lille, Monaco, Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, creating would looks to be a competitive transfer market. 

Davitashvili excels with blistering pace, technical dribbling, has agility for quick direction changes and clinical finishing from wide areas or by cutting inside. His vision and creativity make him a constant threat on the field and earned him the Ligue 2 Player of the Season honors just last week. Although he can struggle in duels with stronger defenders and be inconsistent in decision making, adding Davitashvili would be a major coup by Benfica this summer.

Benfica finish league season undefeated but its a total disappointment

In a campaign defined by remarkable consistency yet haunted by missed opportunities, Benfica completed the 2025-26 Portuguese League season undefeated but finished a shocking third place, condemning them to the UEFA Europa League next season. The Eagles played 34 matches without defeat, recording 23 wins and 11 draws for 80 points. Yet rivals FC Porto (88 points) and Sporting (82 points) edged them out for the top two spots.

Despite the unbeaten run, a feat that would normally guarantee silverware, Benfica's inability to convert dominance into victories against more opposition proved costly. Fans watched in frustration as several draws against mid-table sides proved decisive. The disappointment is compounded by major off-field uncertainty. Manager Jose Mourinho, who returned to Portuguese football with high expectations, is strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid. Los Blancos are reportedly preparing a lucrative offer to bring the "Special One" back to La Liga amid their own transitional period. Mourinho's departure would mark another turbulent chapter for Benfica. 

Adding to the turmoil, veteran defender and team captain Nicolas Otamendi will not renew his contract and leave the club this summer for River Plate, creating a significant void in the heart of the backline. The 38 year-old Argentine World Cup winner, a pillar of Benfica's defense for the past five seasons will need to be replaced by another veteran center back who can provide a calming presence to their young backline. 

Club president Rui Costa faces mounting pressure to stabilize the squad. While the unbeaten record offers pride, third place and European demotion represent a sobering reality of how it does not mean a thing. Benfica must now regroup for the 2026-27 season quickly if they hope to turn historic resilience into future silverware and a return back to Europe's top competition.

Benfica open to offers for right back Amar Dedic after World Cup

Once the dust settles after World Cup 2026, Benfica are reportedly open to entertain serious offers for their impressive young right-back, Amar Dedic. The 23-year-old Bosnian international has enjoyed a breakout season in Portugal, catching the eye of several top European clubs with his dynamic performances.

Benfica acquired Dedic from Red Bull Salzburg in July 2025 for approximately €12 million. The versatile defender, who can also feature on the left, has a contract until 2030 with a €50 million release clause. Previously a product of Salzburg’s academy (with loans at Wolfsberger and Marseille), Dedic quickly established himself as a key figure at Estadio da Luz.

In the 2025-26 campaign, Dedic has been a revelation. He has made over 20 league starts, contributing 1 goal and 4 assists in Portuguese League action while logging significant minutes across domestic and European competitions. Known for his attacking overlaps, defensive solidity and stamina, his displays have bolstered Benfica’s backline and added width in transitions.

Premier League heavyweights Manchester City have been strongly linked, with reports of interest dating back to January and bids potentially going as high as €60 million. Liverpool have also been mentioned, while Fenerbahce and Atletico Madrid have shown recent interest.

With Benfica historically adept at profitable sales, a big money exit will fund further squad rebuilding and the club is hoping for a breakout performance by Dedic at World Cup 2026 before they start listening to offers. For Dedic, a move to a top club would mark another step in his rapid rise. Fans will watch closely as the summer transfer window rolls in.    

Benfica on way to becoming The Unbeatable Three

As the 2025-26 Portuguese League season reaches its climax, Benfica stands on the brink of a remarkable achievement. With one match remaining, the Eagles are unbeaten across 33 league games, 22 wins and 11 draws, boasting a solid goal difference. It's a defensive masterclass and testament to squad resilience under pressure.

Yet, football's cruelty shines through on the season. Despite this flawless record, Benfica are set to finish third in Portugal. Porto have clinched the title, while Sporting just edged them on points in Week 33. An undefeated campaign that would normally spark title parades will instead end potentially in Europa League qualification. The "what if" lingers heavily as a single slip avoided could have presented different results in the standings but instead it look to be a season that has slipped away.

 

Enter Jose Mourinho. The man once dubbed "The Special One" for his transformative brilliance at FC Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan and Real Madrid now he looks to author a different legacy at his boyhood club. Leading Benfica to an unbeaten league season cements his tactical genius once more. From parking the bus to orchestrating controlled dominance, Mourinho has turned potential fragility into ironclad consistency but what he could soon be known as is "The Unbeatable Three", the coach who delivered an invincible domestic run yet watched the ultimate prizes evade him to finish third.

It's a paradoxical crown, historic but bittersweet. Missing the Champions League would sting deeply. The revenue gap between it and the Europa League is massive. The Champions League phase alone brings tens of millions in prize money and broadcasting rights that Benfica desperately needs for squad investment. The Europa League offers prestige and a path, but lacks the financial firepower and glamour of Europe's elite competition. For a club of Benfica's stature, it's a costly missed opportunity that could impact recruitment and squad depth next season.

Mourinho's future remains uncertain amid Real Madrid links, but this unbeaten feat ensures his Benfica chapter will be remembered. Special? Undoubtedly. Undefeated? Absolutely. Triumphant? Not quite for The Unbeatable Third.

Benfica have eyes set on trio of managers if Mourinho departs

As speculation goes into overdrive around Jose Mourinho’s potential return to Real Madrid this summer, Benfica are already preparing for life after the Special One. The Portuguese giants have reportedly drawn up a shortlist of coaching talents, that include current Fulham bench boss Marco Silva, ex-Manchester United and Sporting manager Ruben Amorim and former Flamengo coach Filipe Luis.

Marco Silva has impressed at Fulham since 2021, stabilizing the club in the Premier League after winning the EFL Championship in 2021-22. The 47-year-old has previously won the Greek Super League with Olympiacos (2015-16), the Taca de Portugal with Sporting (2014-15) and the Segunda Liga with Estoril (2011-12). His pragmatic, attacking style and experience navigating mid-table Premier League battles make him a sensible, low-risk option for Benfica.

Ruben Amorim remains one of Portugal’s brightest managerial prospects despite his challenging spell at Manchester United. At Sporting, he delivered two Portuguese League titles (2020-21, 2023-24), along with two Taca da Liga triumphs and a Portuguese Super Cup. His high-pressing, fluid 3-4-3 system transformed Sporting into consistent champions and earned him widespread praise. A return to Lisbon could see him return to his former club in which he captured three league titles as a player. 

Filipe Luis, a club legend as a player, has enjoyed a meteoric rise as a coach. In a short time at Flamengo, he secured major silverware including the 2025 Copa Libertadores, a Brazilian League title and a Copa do Brasil. His tactical acumen and leadership have drawn European interest. Bringing the former left-back to Europe would inject passion and a different set of fresh ideas. 

With Mourinho potentially departing for Madrid, Benfica must choose between proven domestic success (Amorim), steady Premier League know-how (Silva), or inspirational foreign momentum (Filipe Luís). Whoever comes into the club will face huge expectations to restore the Eagles’ dominance. The summer promises to be an entertaining one as Benfica look to find the successful piece of the puzzle.  

Benfica control destiny with two games to go for second spot

Benfica control their own destiny for second place with two games to go in the 2025-26 Portuguese League and the final stretch at hand. Benfica sit tied with Sporting on points in second place with 76 points each from 32 matches. Under Jose Mourinho, the Eagles remain unbeaten in the league to date which is a remarkable achievement but will not win the title. If they remain unbeaten in their final two game it would equal their 1977-78 season which saw the club go undefeated and also lose the title to Porto.

With two fixtures remaining, Benfica control their own destiny for a crucial runners-up finish. They hold the head-to-head advantage over Sporting if the two clubs are to finish even in points. Winning both games would seal second place and secure direct Champions League qualification for next season, rewarding their defensive solidity and consistency.

The final matches offer a chance to complete an historic invincible campaign, boosting morale ahead of European commitments. Finishing second also adds intrigue with Aston Villa now in the Europa League Final. A victory by Aston Villa would hand them the trophy and a spot in next season’s Champions League league phase but if the club automatically qualifies through a Top 4 spot in the Premier League then Portugal's runner up will enter the League phase of the competition directly.

Benfica fans will be watching Villa closely while focusing on securing their domestic league's second place. Two wins stand between them and a strong platform for next season. The Eagles’ fate remains in their own hands and with games at home to Braga (Week 33) and on the road against Estoril (Week 34) a winning finish would push Sporting aside.

Benfica eye experienced free agent Stefan de Vrij as potential Otamendi successor

As league seasons start to wrap up, Benfica have emerged as strong contenders to sign veteran Dutch centre-back Stefan de Vrij on a free transfer this summer. The 34-year-old Inter Milan defender is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the season when his contract expires. Reports coming out of Italy indicate Benfica, alongside Olympiacos and a few other European clubs, are said to have already made offers for the experienced defender.

De Vrij could perfectly slot in to replace club captain Nicolas Otamendi, whose current deal also runs out at the end of the season. The Argentine veteran has been a stalwart since joining from Manchester City in 2020, but age and a change in direction at the club may open the door for a high-quality, cost-effective replacement.

 

Born in 1992, the tall right-footed defender boasts an impressive career. He rose through Feyenoord’s academy, making 135 league appearances before moving to Lazio in the summer of 2014 for €7 million. He would then join Inter in the summer of 2018 on a free transfer, he has racked up over 210 Serie A appearances, scoring 12 goals, contributing to two Serie A titles in 2021 and 2024 and multiple Coppa Italia and Supercoppa wins.

Internationally, de Vrij has earned 79 caps for the Netherlands, scoring 4 goals and featuring in major tournaments. Known for his aerial dominance, composure on the ball and leadership, he remains a reliable performer despite his age.

For Benfica, signing de Vrij would bring immediate defensive stability and a provide a veteran presence in the back four. It would be a smart move to refresh the backline while maintaining their competitiveness. Fans will be watching closely to see if the experienced Dutchman trades Milan for Lisbon over the summer months.
 

Benfica and Sporting share interest in Kairat Almaty keeper

In an interesting development, Benfica are said to have set their sights on promising 22-year-old, Kairat Almaty's keeper Temirlan Anarbekov. The young shot-stopper has turned heads with his standout performances during this seasons UEFA Champions League, delivering crucial saves and showing composure well beyond his years against some of Europe's top clubs.

According to reports from Kazakh media, Benfica are said to be serious about acquiring Anarbekov, but they will face stiff competition from city rivals Sporting. The Lisbon derby dynamic adds extra spice to the pursuit of the Kazakh keeper as both Portuguese giants battle for a high-upside talent who could become a long-term solution between the posts. Acquiring him wouldn’t break the bank as estimates suggest a fee in the low millions with likely add-ons could be enough to secure his services.

This move appears tied to Benfica’s plans for their current starting keeper Anatoliy Trubin. The Ukrainian international has attracted significant Premier League attention, with Benfica reportedly open to cashing in on the soon to be 25-year-old who has a price tag in the €40 million range. Selling Trubin at that price would provide substantial funds to reinvest in the squad and hand Anarbekov the reigns as the club's new starting keeper.

This move has the classic Benfica strategy of acquiring a player for a low cost and developing them to sell higher in the future. Whether the Eagles can pip rivals Sporting remains to be seen, but the battle for Anarbekov's signature promises to be an intriguing off field battle in the coming weeks between two of Portugal's top clubs.

Benfica make u-turn on Mourinho future with club after Real Madrid interest

As the 2025/26 season enters its final stretch, Benfica president Rui Costa is reportedly pushing to secure the long-term future of manager Jose Mourinho amid growing speculation linking the Special One with a sensational return to Real Madrid. Mourinho, who returned to the Estadio da Luz in September 2025, is currently contracted to Benfica until June 2027.

However, the deal includes a break clause that allows either party to terminate the agreement in the 10 days following the final match of this season. This effectively means Mourinho could depart the club for free or for a relatively low compensation fee according to some reports, if no new agreement is reached. According to recent reports, Mourinho has already submitted a detailed proposal for a contract extension, signalling his desire to remain at Benfica beyond the current terms and his desire to get the club to the Champions League.

Yet President Rui Costa has so far preferred to honour the existing deal, creating a subtle but noticeable tension behind the scenes. With Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said to view Mourinho as his preferred candidate to replace interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa, the pressure is mounting on Benfica’s board. Costa, who brought Mourinho back to the club, now faces a critical decision, does he offer the experienced tactician the security and improved terms he seeks, or risk losing one of the most charismatic figures in world football on a potentially a free exit this summer. 

For Benfica fans, the coming weeks will be decisive. Can Rui Costa convince Mourinho that his project at the Eagles is worth committing to long-term, or will the pull of another spell at the Santiago Bernabeu prove too strong to resist. The two sides are talking and a decision will come one way or another, we will just need to find out which direction the decision goes goes in the coming weeks. 

Benfica look towards Brazil and Gremio center back

Benfica are interested in Gremio center back Viery and are said to be the main European club in pursuit of the 21-year-old with a move potentially taking place this summer.

Viery has broken into Gremio's starting eleven this season and has impressed with his performances; the fact that he is a left-footed center back adds to his value. He is signed until 2029 and although the Brazilian club is open to selling, they have set a valuation on the player of €25 million for negotiations.

Benfica views the talent as a long-term investment to bolster their backline. However, Benfica does have competition, with Premier League sides Brighton and Newcastle also being linked to the player.

Benfica wants to secure the talented youngster before his valuation skyrockets. As the product of Gremio's youth system, Viery is the prototypical center back with composure on the ball, aerial strength and the versatility to play as a left back if needed. 

UEFA suspends Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni for 6 games

UEFA has announced the suspension of Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni for six matches following an incident against Real Madrid's Vinicious Junior in the first leg of their Champions League knockout play-off in February 2026. The 20-year-old Argentine was found guilty today of homophobic discriminatory conduct.

Vinicius had alleged he was subjected to racist abuse,  with teammate Kylian Mbappe claiming to have overheard the repeated insults. The match was halted briefly amid the claims. Prestianni denied using racial slurs towards anyone and in his meeting with UEFA admitted the words used were homophobic rather than racist.

After completing their investigation UEFA handed Prestianni a six-match ban for homophobic conduct. Three of those matches are suspended subject to a two-year probationary period. Prestianni has already served one game, having missed the second leg against Real Madrid and will be subject to sit two more UEFA matches.