Player unwilling to leave Benfica has Besiktas keen, Eagles open door | OneFootball

Player unwilling to leave Benfica has Besiktas keen, Eagles open door | OneFootball

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·17 August 2026

Player unwilling to leave Benfica has Besiktas keen, Eagles open door

Article image:Player unwilling to leave Benfica has Besiktas keen, Eagles open door

Dodi Lukebakio could still leave Benfica in this transfer window. The Belgian international, who arrived at the Clube da Luz just a year ago, is on Besiktas’ list of targets as the Turkish side look to strengthen the right flank of their attack.

According to journalist Sercan Dikme, the Turkish club want to sign a new right winger and have Lukebakio among the options under consideration. The club are also keeping an eye on another player currently playing in Italy, although that footballer’s identity has not been revealed. Lukebakio joined Benfica in the summer of 2025 from Sevilla, in a deal worth €20 million. The winger signed a contract until 2030 and was protected by a €50 million release clause.


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Despite the investment made by the Eagles, the Belgian international has yet to establish himself as a key figure at the Estádio da Luz. This season, Lukebakio has made three appearances under Marco Silva, with one goal and one assist. Last season, he featured in just 23 matches, scoring once and providing three assists.

The numbers help explain why his future remains open as the market edges closer to closing. The possibility of a departure becomes even more intriguing given that Lukebakio has already publicly expressed his intention to stay at Benfica.

However, that assurance does not mean his stay is fully guaranteed. Besiktas’ interest could once again put the player’s future up for discussion, especially if the Turks come forward with an offer that appeals to the Benfica hierarchy. Benfica must now decide whether to continue backing a player signed for €20 million or consider a possible departure just one year after his arrival at the Estádio da Luz.

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

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