André Luiz: U-turn in talks between Benfica and Rio Ave | OneFootball

Benfica has reportedly given up on signing André Luiz. According to sources, the Eagles feel that negotiations will not reach a successful conclusion and, with this in mind, the board, led by Rui Costa, has decided to drop the deal in order to focus on other, more important matters in this transfer window.

The information was revealed on January 20th on CNN Portugal, with journalist Bruno Andrade reporting Benfica’s decision regarding the possible signing of the 23-year-old winger. Without providing further details, the most evident reason appears to be the financial intransigence of the Rio Ave club.

Apparently, contrary to what had been reported by our newspaper, the Club of Light will not proceed with the deal. It is worth recalling that Benfica has been trying to secure André Luiz since the opening of the transfer window, but the demands of Evangelos Marinakis, who is asking for a sum close to 20 million euros, seem to have led the club to consider other options.

With the deal now considered off, the arrival of Rafa Silva, who is expected to be in Portugal today, January 21st, gains more momentum. Furthermore, despite interest from the Italian market, this scenario could also lead Benfica to reconsider a possible departure of Andreas Schjelderup.

This season, wearing the Rio Ave shirt, André Luiz — valued at 4 million euros — has played 19 matches: 18 in Liga Portugal Betclic and one in the Portuguese Cup. In 1,463 minutes played, the winger, who is under contract until June 2029, has scored seven goals and provided five assists.

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