After Zalazar, Sporting set to pip Benfica in fresh move | OneFootball

Sporting remain very active in preparing for next season and, after securing Zalazar, have now turned their attention to Issa Doumbia. The Venezia midfielder is one of the targets identified by the Lions’ hierarchy to strengthen Rui Borges' squad, and the green-and-whites have already moved forward with face-to-face talks in Italy.

According to information reported by journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, a specialist in the transfer market, Sporting sent representatives to Italy with the aim of advancing negotiations with Venezia. Talks between the two clubs are expected to intensify in the coming hours, at a time when the 22-year-old midfielder is attracting strong interest across European football.

The deal, however, is not expected to be simple for Frederico Varandas and the rest of Sporting’s hierarchy. In addition to competition from several English clubs, Benfica are also closely monitoring the Italy under-21 international, having had the player on their radar for several months. Even so, Sporting are trying to gain an advantage in negotiations and close the deal as soon as possible.

The same source says that there is already a concrete offer on the table, worth around €20 million, with bonuses potentially to be added depending on sporting objectives. Venezia, who saw Doumbia burst onto the scene this season, know they will likely struggle to keep hold of the player after promotion to Serie A.

This season, playing for Venezia, Issa Doumbia – valued at €8 million – has made 38 appearances. In total, across the 3,009 minutes he has spent on the pitch, the midfielder has scored 10 goals and provided five assists.

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