Ibrahima Ba rejects Rui Costa as Strasbourg move ends Benfica pursuit | OneFootball

According to Glorioso 1904, Ibrahima Ba will not join Benfica, having rejected Rui Costa’s approach and chosen Strasbourg in France.

Benfica had lined up the 21-year-old Senegal international from Famalicão as their preferred centre-back target amid the possible departure of António Silva.

Ba’s decision is linked to the chance to continue working with Hugo Oliveira, the coach who promoted him to Famalicão’s first team and oversaw his development.

Marco Silva made a late attempt to persuade the defender to head to the Luz, stressing the role he could have, but the effort failed. Benfica must now seek alternatives for the position.

If António Silva does leave, senior options are limited to Clément Lenglet and Tomás Araújo. Youngsters Gabriel Índio and Rui Silva are seen as short on experience for a significant role. The staff want at least three experienced centre-backs.

The Minho club are set to receive 20 million euros and keep 15 per cent of any future transfer. Ba will join a side with a strong partnership with Chelsea.

Source: Glorioso 1904