Benfica on red alert over midfielder wanted in Italy | OneFootball

The name of Richard Ríos is once again at the center of attention in the transfer market. The Benfica midfielder, currently representing Colombia at the World Cup, is being named as one of Napoli’s top targets for next season, at a time when his performances continue to be highly rated across several European leagues.

In Italy, the interest is growing stronger by the day, and there are already voices commenting on the player’s potential impact. Vincenzo Sollitto, former sporting director of Anderlecht, had glowing praise for the Colombian international in comments to the AreaNapoli portal. “He is a dynamic, physical, technical Colombian midfielder, an example of modern football, with the ability to push forward into attack. But buying from Benfica is very expensive”, he said.

Signed from Palmeiras for €27 million, Richard Ríos is now seen as a key piece in the balance of Benfica’s midfield. That importance is one of the main reasons why Benfica do not intend to make any departure easy, especially at a time when the player continues to deliver consistent performances.

Napoli have emerged as the main interested party, considering the Colombian as a possible replacement for Zambo Anguissa if the Cameroonian leaves the club. Inter Milan are also closely monitoring the situation, although they have yet to make any formal offers, while keeping the midfielder on their shortlist as an option to strengthen the middle of the pitch.

Despite the growing international interest, Benfica’s position remains firm: Richard Ríos is considered untouchable unless a truly irresistible offer arrives. The club’s hierarchy believe the player can still be decisive next season, and only an offer above the set valuation could change the current scenario.

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