Farense keeper back on Benfica radar

Farense keeper Ricardo Velho is once again being discussed with a potential future move to Benfica, with the two clubs set to go head to head in the Taca de Portugal's round of 16 tomorrow. The 26 year old will have a lot of the club's eyes on his performance against the club.

Farense is hoping to cash out on Velho, who holds a €10M buy clause, one that the Algarve club does not want to budge on, hence his longer than expected stay in Faro.

Velho has appeared in 90 games with Farense across all competitions after joining from Braga's organization in the summer of 2020. His appearances include action across all competitions that include both Portugal's top league and the second division.

Velho is no longer a keeper who just plays on a small club in Portugal after earning his first call-up to Portugal's senior squad this past October. Look for Benfica to bring the asking price for Velho down if any agreement is going to happen between the two squads.

Benfica capture their 8th Taca da Liga title over rivals

In a gripping showdown, Benfica clinched their 8th Taca da Liga title against their fierce rivals, Sporting. The competition, which gives clubs another opportunity to capture a trophy during the season, featured a nail-biting match that ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a dramatic penalty shootout. Benfica showcased their nerve and skill, converting all their penalties in a 7-6 victory, capturing their first title since 2016.

Benfica opened the scoring in the first half when youngster Andreas Schjelderup danced past his defender and got a low shot past Sporting keeper Franco Israel but Sporting would equalize before the half as star striker Viktor Gyokeres would convert from the penalty spot, to bring the game level.

The second half failed to match the exciting first half that both clubs put on display as both managers decided to shift into a tighter defensive style of play, hoping to capitalize on a mistake. The game went straight to penalties after 90 minutes and  after 13 straight conversions by both clubs, Benfica keeper Anatoliy Trubin would make a save on Francisco Trincao to give the Eagles the title.

Benfica open talks with United for Antony loan

Benfica have opened discussions with Manchester United for out of favour 24 year old winger Antony, who has yet to make one start in league action since the arrival of new club manager Ruben Amorim.

Benfica are looking to strengthen their depth at the right wing position and feel that Antony would be a perfect backup to current starter Angel di Maria and be able to supplement the 36 year old star, who the club would prefer to rest on occasions. 

Benfica is in competition for Antony alongside Real Betis and Olympiacos, but it is still uncertain if United are looking to move out the player who arrived at the club for a hefty price tag of €95M in the summer of 2022.

His career at United started off exceptionally well under the guidance of the club's former manager, Erik Ten Hag, but his career has flopped to the wayside for some time now with what can only be a lack of confidence in his own game.

Benfica will have to negotiate with United on the player's remaining salary for the season if a loan were to take place, with Antony still set to earn over £5M to finish off the season.