Gabriel Índio bound for Benfica! Fabrizio Romano: deal all but done | OneFootball

Benfica are finalizing the details to secure the signing of Gabriel Índio, a 17-year-old center-back from Athletic MG. The young Brazilian is regarded as one of the standout prospects of his generation and convinced Benfica’s decision-makers to move forward with the deal.

The information was reported by Fabrizio Romano, who revealed the existence of a verbal agreement between the two clubs for a transfer worth around €4.2 million. The process has been handled by Mário Branco over the past few days and is now virtually complete.

Gabriel Índio arrives to strengthen a position that remains a priority for Benfica in this transfer window. Left-footed, a trait valued by Benfica, the center-back is expected to join the first team immediately and take on the role of the squad’s fourth center-back, filling the space left by Gonçalo Oliveira, whose departure is imminent.

Despite the arrival of the young Brazilian, Rui Costa and the structure led by Mário Branco remain alert to the market in search of a more experienced center-back. The departure of Nicolás Otamendi left a major gap in the heart of the defense, and Benfica intend to add more experience to compete with António Silva, Tomás Araújo and now Gabriel Índio.

. In 2026, Gabriel Índio made 14 appearances for Athletic MG’s first team and is now preparing to cross the Atlantic and begin his adventure wearing the eagle on his chest, where he will celebrate his 18th birthday on July 26.

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