And this? Benfica chased Santos player but move was sunk by... Rollheiser | OneFootball

Benfica signed Gabriel Índio, but was close to acquiring another player with the same profile. João Ananias, a centre-back for Santos, was in talks with the Clube da Luz, but the 19-year-old left-footed defender did not move to Portugal because of a deal involving a former Benfica player.

According to a report by UOL Esporte, the defender’s agent, Marcelo Pettinatti, mediated the talks between the clubs. Santos was willing to complete the transfer for 7 million euros, a fee Benfica accepted.

However, the structure led by Rui Costa wanted to reduce the amount because of Santos’ debt from the transfer of Benjamín Rollheiser. The Argentine attacking midfielder, it should be recalled, was transferred from Benfica to Santos in February 2025 for 11 million euros.

In this deal, the Eagles managed to retain 15 percent of the 26-year-old player’s rights. However, the Brazilian club still has not settled the debt, a factor that proved decisive in ending the talks. It is worth remembering that Botafogo also owes millions to Glorioso.

. The youngster will join the first team squad as the fourth option. Marco Silva’s side will also sign another centre-back to compete with Tomás Araújo and António Silva.

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