Marco Silva ‘to target’ Jonathan Jesus as Artur Jorge’s Cruzeiro resists sale | OneFootball

Record writes that Marco Silva has identified Cruzeiro defender Jonathan Jesus to bolster Benfica’s defence, but Artur Jorge regards the player as indispensable.

Following António Silva’s exit, recruiting a centre-back is Benfica’s top priority. Talks have been under way for days and Jonathan Jesus is viewed as the leading option to reinforce the back line.

The obstacle is Cruzeiro, who are resisting a sale and consider the Brazilian a major sporting asset. Benfica are also unwilling to make a heavy outlay, and the defender’s release clause stands at 100 million euros.

An undisputed starter under the Portuguese coach, the 22-year-old has become one of the standouts for the Belo Horizonte side. He is valued at 8 million euros and has attracted interest from some European clubs.

In 2026 he has played 26 times for Cruzeiro, logging 2,103 minutes and scoring once. His appearances are split across 13 in the Brasileirão, six in the Campeonato Mineiro, five in the Libertadores and two in the Taça do Brasil.

Source: Glorioso 1904