Famalicão midfielder admired by Benfica as transfer depends on new manager
Benfica have already started planning for next season, with Gustavo Sá emerging as one of the names identified to strengthen the club’s attacking midfield options. The Portugal Under-21 international, currently playing for Famalicão, is viewed at the Estádio da Luz as a player capable of making an immediate impact while also offering significant long-term potential.
Despite Benfica’s interest, there have not yet been any formal talks between the two clubs. However, Benfica officials are aware that any move for the 21-year-old midfielder would require a major financial effort, with Famalicão expected to demand around €20 million.
Any possible transfer will also depend on Benfica’s next head coach. With José Mourinho no longer considered a realistic option, Marco Silva has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge, and the future manager is expected to play an important role in shaping the squad.
Benfica searching for attacking midfielder after missing out on Rodrigo Zalazar
Rodrigo Zalazar had been Benfica’s priority target for the attacking midfield role. However, the Uruguayan international completed a move from SC Braga to Sporting in a deal reportedly worth €30 million.
Benfica made contact with SC Braga president António Salvador, but the asking price ultimately pushed the Eagles away from negotiations. In addition, the club wanted to resolve the situation surrounding Heorhii Sudakov before making another major investment.
Sudakov, who joined Benfica from Shakhtar Donetsk for €27 million, remains a sensitive issue within the club. The Ukrainian international wants to stay and fight for his place despite a difficult first season.
Recently, the midfielder admitted he has been going through a challenging emotional period.
“I want to be honest: footballers sometimes go through difficult moments. It is normal to feel physical and emotional fatigue. I am working to rediscover my enjoyment of the game,” he said.
Gustavo Sá rejected lucrative move to Saudi Arabia
Gustavo Sá’s talent has not gone unnoticed outside Portugal. In January, the midfielder came very close to joining Al Ittihad, who were managed at the time by Sérgio Conceição.
The Saudi club reportedly reached an agreement with Famalicão worth around €17 million, but the player chose to remain in Portugal, turning down a highly lucrative contract.
That decision strengthened his reputation as a player focused on sporting development and ready to take the next step in his career at a higher competitive level.
Mário Branco working behind the scenes for Benfica
While Benfica remain focused on appointing a new manager, sporting director Mário Branco is already working behind the scenes to accelerate preparations for next season.
Gustavo Sá remains one of the most highly-rated names within Benfica’s recruitment structure, particularly because of his technical quality, room for development and growing experience in Portuguese football.
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