Benfica target Racing Santander midfielder to replace Richard Ríos | OneFootball

Benfica target Racing Santander midfielder to replace Richard Ríos | OneFootball

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·26 August 2026

Benfica target Racing Santander midfielder to replace Richard Ríos

Article image:Benfica target Racing Santander midfielder to replace Richard Ríos

Benfica’s midfield could still undergo changes before the transfer window closes. The Eagles’ SAD still has several scenarios on the table, and there is one possibility that could trigger a real swap of Colombian midfielders. For now, there is no official offer for Richard Ríos, but the structure led by Rui Costa still believes an opportunity could arise to negotiate the Colombian international.

It is in this context that the name of Gustavo Puerta emerges. According to Record, the 23-year-old midfielder, currently at Racing Santander, is being closely watched by Benfica’s decision-makers and is appreciated by Marco Silva. However, the club will only move for the Colombian if Ríos actually leaves the squad.


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Benfica’s SAD is willing to invest around €20 million in Gustavo Puerta, but first wants to secure a higher fee from the sale of Richard Ríos. The target set for the departure of the midfielder signed from Palmeiras is a transfer worth around €35 to €40 million. So far, however, no official offer has arrived at the Luz, although the player continues to be monitored by interested clubs — such as Al Ittihad.

Gustavo Puerta, who had already been targeted by Porto this summer, is also open to a move to Portugal. The “cafetero” has been approached by other clubs, including Premier League sides, at a time when staying at Racing Santander is considered unlikely. The Spanish club was promoted to La Liga this season, and the midfielder may be facing another move in his career, although there is still no agreement.

. Ríos has been a regular substitute at the start of the season under Marco Silva, but he still has a market.

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

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