Rui Costa sets market plan as Benfica 'to trim' squad and promote Seixal youth | OneFootball

Benfica, led by Rui Costa, have begun shaping their summer window and mapped out broad plans for 2026/27. The focus is to streamline the squad, open pathways for Seixal talent and target specific profiles.

Record writes that Daniel Banjaqui, José Neto and Anísio Cabral could be among those to gain opportunities. The approach is to favour in-house solutions and adjust the structure without added outlay.

José Mourinho also wants reinforcements with greater physicality and speed to raise intensity. In positional terms, a centre-back and a winger top the list, with goalkeeper, midfielder and striker under review.

A potential departure for Nicolás Otamendi, whose contract is up, would compel further cover at centre-back. Out wide, changes are being weighed to increase attacking verticality.

Benfica's spending will also hinge on European qualification. A place in the UEFA Champions League could influence finances and the retention of key players. The team sit third in the league on 65 points.

Source: Glorioso 1904