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.
Benfica continue to look at moves to strengthen their squad for next season and have made a bold approach to free agent central defender Jan Vertonghen. The 33 year old Belgian International spent the last eight seasons as a member of English side Tottenham, appearing in 315 games for the Spurs across all competitions while also being capped by Belgium on 118 occasions. Benfica are confident that they will sign the veteran defender with new manager Jorge Jesus pushing for a more competitive club in Portugal and Europe.
Vertonghen has not been a member of a club that has won a team trophy since he was with Ajax back in 2012 and is said to like what Benfica have presented him in terms of the deal which is said to be for three seasons and the chance to play Champions League football. Benfica are also currently negotiating with striker Edinson Cavani and landing both players would be a major coop for the Lisbon side who have already landed right back Gabriel, keeper Helton Leite and are set to announce the arrival of winger Cebolinha.
