Despite the rumours, Rui Pedro Braz won't poach Benfica star | OneFootball

Richard Ríos has once again been linked with rumors involving the Saudi market, at a time when the future of the Colombian midfielder at Benfica continues to attract attention. The speculation emerged due to Al Ahli’s alleged interest in strengthening its midfield during this transfer window.

Despite the reports that began circulating, Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari assures that there has been no contact between Al Ahli and the Eagles with a view to a possible transfer of the Colombian.

The name of Rui Pedro Braz, who previously worked at the Luz and currently serves as an executive at Al Ahli, is naturally associated with the rumor due to his connection to Portuguese football. However, the information shared by Gianluigi Longari does not point to any approach from the Saudi club.

The Colombian midfielder arrived at Benfica in July 2025 from Palmeiras in a deal worth €27 million, according to the announcement by the Eagles. The 26-year-old footballer signed a contract with Benfica until 2030 and, since then, has become one of the options for the Lisbon side’s midfield.

Last season, playing for Benfica, Richard Ríos — valued at €25 million — made 45 appearances: 27 in Liga Portugal Betclic, 12 in the Champions League, three in the Portuguese Cup, two in the League Cup, and one in the Super Cup. In the 3,638 minutes he spent on the pitch, he recorded eight goals and six assists.

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