Benfica make final call on new signings | OneFootball

Benfica’s SAD has decided to close this winter transfer window. The decision is not to strengthen the squad with another winger, since Dodi Lukebakio is close to returning to full training and Andreas Schjelderup and Gianluca Prestianni have shown positive signs in recent matches.

Strengthening the attacking flanks was one of the priorities upon the reopening of the transfer window. André Luiz, from Rio Ave, and Wesley, from Al Nassr, were among the main targets identified by the club’s management. However, the financial demands of Evangelos Marinakis, investor in the Vila do Conde club, and the conditions imposed by the Saudi club ultimately made both deals unfeasible.

In this context, the imminent return of Lukebakio ended up weighing on the final decision. The Belgian winger, 28 years old, is expected to rejoin training on the pitch later this week, about two and a half months after suffering a fracture in his left ankle while on international duty. After surgery, the player is now entering the final stage of his recovery and could be available as soon as the match against Alverca or, alternatively, for the away game at Santa Clara.

The winger’s availability represents a significant boost for José Mourinho – who said he was experiencing a “magical day”. The Belgian international established himself as an important player at the start of the season, after joining the Club from Sevilla. After making his debut as a substitute, due to still limited fitness, he started ten consecutive matches before getting injured, recording one goal and three assists.

With the transfer window closed, the Special One now has a broader range of options for the wings. In addition to Lukebakio, Schjelderup and Prestianni continue to gain ground, Sidny Lopes Cabral integrated quickly and Bruma is looking to regain his best form after a long layoff.

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