Rui Costa acts fast, Benfica plan renewal for Renato's nephew | OneFootball

Benfica is sticking to its strategy of protecting the main prospects from its academy and, after securing Rafael Quintas’ continued stay, is now preparing to move forward with another renewal considered important by the structure led by Rui Costa. The aim is to fend off interest from other clubs and ensure stability for the young players with the greatest room for development.

The next name on the list is Stevan Manuel. According to Record, negotiations between the two parties have already begun, and the left winger, who recently turned 18, has a proposal on the table to sign a long-term contract with the Eagles, reinforcing Benfica’s commitment to one of Portugal’s Under-17 world champions.

Last season, Stevan Manuel split his time between Benfica’s Under-23s, Under-19s and B team. In total, he featured in 33 official matches, recording two goals and two assists, numbers that strengthened the Reds’ confidence in the young attacker’s potential.

In addition to the path he has taken at Seixal, Stevan Manuel also attracts attention for being the nephew of Renato Sanches, former Benfica midfielder and Portugal international, who also emerged from the club’s academy before establishing himself at the highest level of European football.

With this renewal now in progress, Rui Costa once again shows that youth development remains a priority in Benfica’s project. After reaching an agreement with Rafael Quintas, the Reds’ SAD now intends to secure the continued stay of another Seixal jewel, keeping intact its commitment to the talents who may go on to join the first team in the coming years.

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