Benfica in talks to sign Yves Bissouma | OneFootball

Benfica remain determined to strengthen their midfield for the 2026/27 season and, although João Palhinha remains the top priority, the club’s board is already working on alternatives. Among the names on the table is Yves Bissouma, the Mali international midfielder who is currently a free agent.

According to Maisfutebol, Benfica’s decision-makers have already made an initial approach for the 29-year-old player, and talks between the two parties are ongoing. Yves Bissouma saw his contract with Tottenham expire at the end of last season and did not renew his deal with the London club.

Interestingly, the Malian midfielder shared the dressing room with João Palhinha in 2025/26, before both left Spurs. Now, while the Portugal international remains Marco Silva’s preferred target, Bissouma is emerging as an increasingly strong option if a move for Palhinha does not go through.

The former Lille player built much of his career in England, where he played for Brighton and Tottenham, gaining extensive Premier League experience. Despite the interest in Bissouma, João Palhinha continues to top Benfica’s list of desired midfield reinforcements.

Marco Silva believes the Portugal international has the ideal qualities to bring experience, balance and intensity to the middle of the park. However, competition from several clubs and the complexity of the negotiations have led Benfica’s hierarchy to prepare credible alternatives.

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