Benfica ‘in advanced talks’ for Parma centre-back Alessandro Circati | OneFootball

Benfica are in advanced talks for Parma centre-back Alessandro Circati, 22, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The discussions concern a position Marco Silva has identified as a priority for reinforcement at Benfica.

Born in Australia and also holding Italian nationality, Circati plays for the Socceroos. He started all four of their World Cup matches, impressing across the tournament.

Standing 1.91 metres, he came through at Perth Glory before joining Parma in 2020/21. He debuted for the first team the following season and grew in importance.

His rise was interrupted in 2024/25 by a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, which sidelined him for 196 days at a time when he was already key.

Last season the Australia international reasserted himself, making 33 appearances and scoring once for Parma. If the deal progresses, Benfica would be adding a young, physically strong defender with international experience to address a thin area of the squad.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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