Marco Silva asks Rui Costa to bolster 3 key Benfica positions | OneFootball

Marco Silva was clear at the end of the defeat against Flamengo (2-1) in the Algarve Trophy: Benfica still need to strengthen the squad before the official start of the season. The coach was keen to make it clear that he was not referring to the six internationals who will return to the group in the coming days, but rather to the need to add new options to the Eagles' squad: A midfielder, a winger, and a striker.

The structure led by Rui Costa is aligned with that strategy, but there is one important condition. The arrival of most of the reinforcements will depend on players leaving the current squad, whether through permanent transfers or loans, freeing up space and financial room for new signings.

According to Record, the main exception is midfield. If negotiations for João Palhinha move forward, the Portugal international could arrive at the Luz without the need for any midfielder to leave, since Marco Silva considers that position one of the priorities to strengthen before the start of the season.

However, the center of the pitch is not the only area identified by the coaching staff. The same source also reports that signing a winger remains one of the SAD's objectives, especially given the strong possibility of Gianluca Prestianni leaving Benfica during this summer transfer window.

The attack could also see developments. Although Anísio is part of Marco Silva's plans for the new season, Franjo Ivanovic's future remains open. The Croatia international continues to be tracked by several clubs and could leave the Luz if an offer deemed advantageous for all parties comes in.

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