Florentino has become a wanted man in Europe

Benfica's Florentino Luis has become a wanted man according to reports coming out of Spanish newspaper Relevo, with several clubs vying for his signature. The 23 year-old midfielder had an impressive season for the Portuguese giants after a couple of loan spells away from the club and showcased his defensive abilities and composure on the ball under the tutelage of manager Roger Schmidt.

Florentino's performances have gained the attention, of AC Milan, Lyon and Aston Villa who are all reportedly interested in signing him. Despite being a young player, Florentino has already shown maturity beyond his years. He is comfortable playing in different positions across the midfield and can adapt to different tactical systems. His physicality and work rate make him an asset to any team.

Benfica are said to want €40M to move on from Florentino who has become a fundamental part of Roger Schmidt's system, appearing in 54 games across all competitions and has a contract with Benfica until the summer of 2027 with a buy clause of €120M.

Benfica could face Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in pre-season

Benfica have yet to release their pre-season schedule but information is starting to trickle in from abroad that the Lisbon side will be facing Basel in Switzerland in July and traveling to the Netherlands to take on Feyenoord. Benfica is also set to play in a summer tournament in the Algarve and on the table is the possibility of facing Cristiano Ronaldo's Saudi club Al-Nassr. The four team tournament could also see Celta Vigo and Crystal Palace join into the mix.

Having seen the Portuguese league season end just one week ago today, Benfica are already in preparation for next year when they will kick off the season in the Super Cup against tomorrows winner of the Taca de Portugal, sometime in early August. Benfica have a direct route to the Champions League this year after winning the league title and should be able to get more friendlies into the schedule then in seasons past.

Can Benfica go with Youth League winners next season

Benfica has always been known for their exceptional youth academy and that academy proved their worth when they captured the UEFA Youth League title during the 2021/22 season. Two of the core pieces in that Championship run were the center back pairing of Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo.

Antonio Silva made his first team debut with Benfica this season, one in which he cemented his role as a regular starter at the club and his performances did not go unnoticed as he landed himself a spot with Portugal at World Cup 2022. Tomas Araujo on the other hand spent the season on loan at Gil Vicente, were his fine performances went mostly under the radar as he applied his trade at a lower table club.

Silva and Araujo were a rock-solid pairing at the back throughout the youth tournament, making crucial tackles when needed. They also contributed to the attack scoring important goals in their run to the title. With Otamendi becoming a free agent, could Benfica turn to their Championship winning pair for next season. 

Its a Made in Seixal story that I would enjoy witnessing during the 2023/24 season. Lets make it happen