Rafael Luís leaves Benfica for Gençlerbirligi, club keep 50% and buy-back | OneFootball

According to Glorioso 1904, Rafael Luís has left Benfica on deadline day to join Gençlerbirligi in Türkiye on a permanent deal. Benfica retain 50% of his rights and a buy-back option.

A product of Benfica’s academy since 2010/11, the 21-year-old defensive midfielder was involved with the first-team pre-season last term. He featured under Bruno Lage in a 3-2 Eusébio Cup win over Fenerbahçe.

He was then loaned to Strasbourg for his first spell in French football, making 18 appearances and scoring once before returning to Benfica.

At Gençlerbirligi, he will find compatriots Pedro Pereira, Kevin Soares and Pedro Mendes in the squad. The connection between the clubs is not new.

The Portugal youth international has signed a two-season contract running to 2028. Benfica wished him success in his sporting career and personal life.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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