Benfica make final call on new signings | OneFootball

The SAD of Benfica has decided to close this winter market. The option is not to strengthen the squad with another winger, since Dodi Lukebakio is close to returning to training without limitations and Andreas Schjelderup and Gianluca Prestianni have shown positive signs in recent matches.

Strengthening the offensive flanks was one of the priorities in the market reopening. André Luiz, from Rio Ave, and Wesley, from Al Nassr, were among the main targets identified by the club's structure. However, the financial demands of Evangelos Marinakis, an investor in the Vila do Conde club, and the conditions imposed by the Saudi club ended up making both processes unfeasible.

In this context, the imminent return of Lukebakio ended up weighing in the final decision. The Belgian winger, 28 years old, is expected to rejoin training on the field this week, about two and a half months after suffering a fracture in his left ankle while on national duty. After the surgical intervention, the player is now in the final stretch of recovery and could be an option already in the reception to Alverca or, alternatively, in the away match against Santa Clara.

The availability of the winger represents a significant reinforcement for José Mourinho - who said he is experiencing a "magical day". The Belgian international established himself as an important piece at the start of the season, after arriving at the club from Seville. After a first game as a substitute due to still limited physical condition, he started in ten consecutive matches before getting injured, scoring one goal and providing three assists.

With the market closed, the Special One now has a broader range of options for the wings. Besides Lukebakio, Schjelderup and Prestianni continue to gain space, Sidny Lopes Cabral integrated quickly and Bruma is looking to regain his best form after a long period of inactivity.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.