Rui Costa ‘to prioritise’ new deal for Benfica winger Jaden Umeh | OneFootball

Benfica have identified Jaden Umeh as a priority for a new contract, with the 18-year-old winger drawing increasing international interest. Despite having one year left, the club want to move early to avoid any premature departure.

The renewal is expected to be treated as a summer priority by the board led by Rui Costa, according to O Jogo.

Umeh joined from Cork City at 16. He has yet to make his first-team debut, but has progressed consistently through the youth ranks and is viewed as a player with significant room to grow.

His recent call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad under Heimir Hallgrimsson underlined that trajectory. The coach has highlighted his potential while stressing he remains in development.

The winger has been likened to Milan forward Rafael Leão for his explosiveness and physical profile. He is no longer represented by Gestifute.

This season he has featured for the under-23s, under-19s and Benfica B, playing 33 matches and scoring 13 goals. His best run has come with the juniors, where he has 12 goals and three assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904