Benfica seem to inquire about almost all available players as they continue to look at strengthening and changing their squad for the upcoming season. The latest player that has caught the clubs attention is versatile defender Nacho Fernandez who fits Benfica's manager Jorge Jesus view of adding more veteran defensive help to the squad. The 30 year old Real Madrid player appeared in only 10 games for Real across all competitions this past season and is said to be unhappy and is considering a move away from Madrid as he looks for more playing time. Nacho who is primarily a central defender can also play both defensive back positions if the need arose and would fit a perfectly into a substitute role for the four defenders when a rest was needed. Nacho would be the third defender added since the arrival of Jorge Jesus joining Jan Vertonghen and Gilberto, the Spanish International price tag is said to be in the range of €10M-€15M.
The return of Jorge Jesus at Benfica was expected to see the club make some big changes as the former Benfica man looks to mold the squad to his competitive nature. Benfica have acquired six players over the last ten days in Jan Vertonghen, Cebolinha, Gilberto, Luca Waldschmidt, Pedrinho and Helton Leite but are also linked to a host of other players, most notably free agent striker Edinson Cavani.
Jesus has let it be known that he would like to work with 25 to 26 players on his main squad and with six players already added and potential for another two or three, expect some famaliar faces that we have come to know depart Benfica over the next few weeks as the club prepares for the upcoming Portuguese and European seasons.
Benfica continue to revamp their squad announcing three more signings in the new Jorge Jesus era, as the club looks to field a powerhouse in the Portuguese league and give their European opponents something to think about when facing them.
Benfica announced the signings today of central defender Jan Vertonghen, winger Cebolinha and striker Luca Waldschmidt.
The 33 year old veteran Vertonghen has signed a three year deal with Benfica and comes on a free transfer after parting ways with Tottenham at seasons end. Vertonghen was rated in the top ten best central defenders in the game just last season by many of Europe's top publications and his veteran presence alongside Ruben Dias will be fun to watch. He will earn €1.5M per season with a an additional €400K per season in bonuses if certain accomplishments are met.
