Rio Ave sign Diogo Bezerra, move could aid André Luiz’s Benfica switch | OneFootball

Rio Ave have announced the signing of 23-year-old Brazilian winger Diogo Bezerra, a move that could ease a potential exit for André Luiz to Benfica by providing an immediate alternative in attack.

Bezerra joins from OFK Beograd in Serbia in a deal worth 1.8 million euros after a strong first half of the season, with two goals and eight assists. He has signed until June 2030, tying him to the club for four and a half seasons.

The arrival hands head coach Sotiris Silaidopoulos more options and allows Rio Ave to manage André Luiz’s future with greater calm. The winger remains among the most coveted players in the squad and has been identified by Benfica in this window, though Rio Ave’s terms have not appealed to the Lisbon club.

Even so, the signing of Bezerra does not automatically mean André Luiz will be sold. The move is viewed as preparation for several scenarios.

This season André Luiz, valued at four million euros, has played 18 competitive matches for Rio Ave, 17 in Liga Portugal Betclic and one in the Taça de Portugal. Across 1,390 minutes he has seven goals and five assists. He is under contract until June 2029.

Source: Glorioso 1904