Benfica have launched a partnership with cryptocurrency payment solution Utrust, becoming the first big European club to accept payment via blockchain. Fans will now be able to pay for merchandise and tickets at the clubs online store with bitcoin or ethereum. Benfica is hoping that its move into the digital payment world will help evolve its e-commerce strategy and expand its global audience with tech savvy users. The partnership which was announced in early June is already in use on its online store.
AC Milan have reached out to Benfica to discuss the availability of midfielder Gedson Fernandes. Milan who recently struck a deal with UEFA to be banned from European competition for a year due to violations of the Financial Fair play rules is said to be looking for a loan deal with Benfica with an option to purchase the player at the end of the loan spell. Benfica have already added a buyout clause of €120M to Gedson's current contract that runs until the summer of 2023. Gedson had his first full season with the main squad, appearing in 46 games across all competitions. The 20 year old youngster scored three times while setting up an additional six goals. AC Milan's current financial situation does not bode well in their attempts to acquire Gedson and they would need to get creative to see Benfica let go of the youngster.
Benfica have reached out to Juventus to discuss keeper Mattia Perin according to Italian papers. Benfica have been searching for a keeper this summer as they look to move on from current starter Odysseas Vlachodimos and back up Mile Svilar. Perin looks set to move down the pegging order at Juventus with the potential return of former keeper Gianluigi Buffon and would have the opportunity to play regular first team minutes with the Lisbon club. Perin would cost Benfica between €15M to €20M a small profit for Juventus who acquired Perin from Genoa last summer for €12M.
