Benfica Secures Rising Star Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise

In an exciting move for Benfica fans, the Portuguese giants have finalized the transfer of promising Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise. The deal marks a significant addition to Benfica’s attacking lineup as they gear up for the 2025-26 season.

The transfer fee has been set at a substantial €23M, with an additional €5M in potential add-ons, bringing the total package to €28M. This agreement also includes a sell-on clause of 20%, ensuring Union Saint-Gilloise benefits from any future profit should Ivanovic move again.

The 21-year-old forward, is signing a contract until June 2030 and has arrived in Lisbon this evening to undergo his medical examination, a key step before officially donning the Benfica jersey. His arrival has already sparked enthusiasm among supporters eager to see his impact on the pitch.

Ivanovic’s breakout 2024-25 season with Union Saint-Gilloise, where he scored twenty goals and provided five assists in 46 appearances, highlighted his potential. His role in securing the Belgian club’s first league title in 90 years caught the attention of several European clubs, including Benfica, who outmaneuvered competition from Wolverhampton and Eintracht Frankfurt. 

The young striker’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him an ideal complement to Vangelis Pavlidis, strengthening Benfica’s attack under coach Bruno Lage. This transfer underscores Benfica’s ambition to reclaim dominance in the Portuguese League and excel in European competitions. 

Ivanovic’s journey from HNK Rijeka to Union Saint-Gilloise and now to Lisbon, reflects his rapid rise in football. As he prepares to join pre-season training, fans are optimistic about his contribution and await the official announcement of Ivanovic's move to Benfica, as he begins his Benfica chapter! 

Benfica host Fenerbahce in Eusebio Cup

Benfica will host Fenerbahce in the 14th edition of the Eusebio Cup later today at the Estadio da Luz, looking for their third straight victory in the competition. Benfica have faced off against some top clubs in the game that honours club legend Eusebio, with Real Madrid, Arsenal, AC Milan, Inter and Ajax to name a few. Benfica defeated Feyenoord 5-0 in last seasons game that was attended by over 54,000 fans.

Benfica turn to Jupiler Pro Leauge for striker

Benfica is ramping up its efforts to bolster its attacking options, with reports indicating that the Portuguese giants are in advanced talks with Union St. Gilloise to sign Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic.

The 21-year-old forward is being eyed as the ideal backup for Benfica’s striker, Vangelis Pavlidis, following the imminent departures of Arthur Cabral, Andrea Belotti and Casper Tengstedt. According to multiple sources, including SportTV and Maisfutebol, Benfica is prepared to offer around €20 million for Ivanovic, though Union St. Gilloise is holding firm for a fee closer to €25-€30 million.

The €25-€30 million wanted by Gilloise is a significant jump from the €4 million that they paid to HNK Rijeka last summer for the players acquisition. Ivanovic had a breakout 2024-25 season with Union St. Gilloise, playing a pivotal role in their first Belgian league title in 90 years. The young striker scored an impressive 20 goals and provided 5 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.

His physical presence, clinical finishing and ability to contribute in big moments, evidenced by his two goals for the Croatian national team in just four caps to date, have also attracted interest from various clubs. 

As Benfica looks to maintain its competitive edge in the Primeira Liga and European competitions, Ivanovic’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him a strong candidate to complement Pavlidis. As the two clubs proceed with negotiations fans are eager to see if Rui Costa can finalize the deal for the promising Croatian talent in the coming days.