Napoli eye Richard Ríos as Benfica hold firm | OneFootball

Napoli, one of Italy’s biggest clubs, are tracking Benfica midfielder Richard Ríos, but any negotiation is expected to be difficult. The Colombian is currently with his national team at the World Cup and his form is drawing interest across Europe.

Vincenzo Sollitto, former Anderlecht sporting director, said: "He is a dynamic, physical, technical Colombian midfielder, an interpretation of modern football, with the ability to break forward. But buying from Benfica costs a lot," he told AreaNapoli.

Signed from Palmeiras for €27 million, Ríos is regarded as central to Benfica’s midfield balance. That status is a key reason the club do not intend to ease any exit.

Napoli are assessing him as a possible replacement for Zambo Anguissa if the Cameroon international leaves. Inter Milan are also monitoring the situation, with no formal offers to date, but the midfielder remains on their list.

Despite the growing interest, Benfica’s stance is firm. Ríos is considered untouchable unless a truly irresistible proposal arrives, with the hierarchy believing he can be decisive next season. Only an offer above the values set internally would change the current picture.

Source: Glorioso 1904