Rui Costa on alert, Sporting ‘to gain’ edge over Benfica for 22-year-old midfielder | OneFootball

Rui Costa and Benfica risk being left behind in the pursuit of Venezia midfielder Issa Doumbia, 22. According to Glorioso 1904, Sporting have moved first while Benfica are yet to advance.

The report says Sporting, led by Frederico Varandas, have lodged an offer of around 10 million euros with Venezia, who are competing in Serie B. It adds that this is the only bid submitted so far.

Doumbia is described as paying little heed to speculation, remaining focused on helping Venezia push for a return to Serie A.

Benfica’s scouting team have identified the midfielder for next season, but the lack of a response from the Benfica hierarchy points to him not being a priority, which gives Sporting a clear edge.

This season Doumbia has featured in 34 matches for Venezia, totalling 2,843 minutes, with eight goals and four assists. He is valued at 8 million euros.

Source: Glorioso 1904