Palhinha arrival set to prompt Benfica midfield reshuffle, three candidates to depart | OneFootball

João Palhinha’s imminent arrival at Benfica is poised to prompt changes in midfield as he heads to Estádio da Luz. Marco Silva would have six options for the two double pivot roles in his usual 4-2-3-1.

According to Glorioso 1904, captain Fredrik Aursnes is viewed as untouchable, while Leandro Barreiro remains central to the plan. That leaves Manu Silva, Richard Ríos and Barrenechea as the leading candidates to make way.

Ríos currently has strong interest from several Premier League clubs. The Colombia international has been a substitute at the start of this season, and Palhinha’s arrival would further squeeze his minutes.

Barrenechea’s outlook is different. The Argentine has impressed in recent outings, notably against Aarhus, a display that drew praise from Marco Silva. Even so, he could still be among the sacrifices in any reshuffle.

A departure in midfield would free a squad spot, ease the wage bill and help offset the sizeable outlay to land Palhinha. With the move nearing, Benfica’s hierarchy must decide the future of at least one current midfielder.

Source: Glorioso 1904

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”