Benfica still searching for left back

Benfica are still searching for a replacement for departed starting left back Alex Grimaldo for next season and the club has already been linked with a variety of left backs from around Europe but have yet to finalize a deal with any and are set to open camp this way unless a move is completed over the next few days.

Benfica have already been linked this summer with Atletico Madrid left back Renan Lodi, Sassuolo left back Rogerio and Twente left back Gijs Smal. The club currently has one left back Mihailo Ristic on their main squad outside of youngsters from their academy. 

The club would be wise to add a seasoned left back before the start of camp to integrate with the squad as it prepares to defend its league crown next season.

Lucas Verissimo departure from Benfica looks imminent

Benfica defender Lucas Verissimo looks set to depart the club during the summer transfer window as the soon to be 28 year old looks for more playing time that he is unlikely to get remaining with the Lisbon side.

Benfica are said to be looking for an outright sale of Verissimo as they look to recuperate the €6.5M they paid to acquire him in the summer of 2021. Verissimo's name has been linked with a host of Brazilian sides from Flamengo to Corinthians but Benfica's likely asking price of €10M may be too rich for these clubs.

Verissimo currently sits fourth on Benfica's depth chart at center back and with Tomas Araujo and Joao Victor returning from their respective loans the competition will be high to maintain that role, making Verissimo's departure is highly likely. 

Benfica continue search for left back in Dutch League

With Benfica still unable to secure an agreement with AZ Alkmaar for left back Milos Kerkez, the club is looking at alternative options to replace departing starter Alex Grimaldo within the Dutch League and are said to have inquired about Twente left back Gijs Smal.

The 25 year old appeared in 44 games across all competitions last season, scoring twice while providing eleven helpers and as is said to be available for around €10M. Benfica is hoping to have their future starting left back in place before the club returns from their off season and starts to prepare on the field for next season.