The transfer market may be looming, but for now, all eyes in Lisbon are focused on the pitch. This evening’s derby between Benfica and Sporting Lisbon will once again be an opportunity to assert city supremacy and respond to Porto, who have leapt to the top of the standings with a resounding 4-0 victory over Boavista. As always, this match will attract the attention of numerous scouts and market observers, as it often showcases talents destined for grand international stages. This time, the spotlight could once again fall on Antonio Silva, the central defender for the red and white Eagles, who is one of Juventus’ primary transfer targets.
Calciomercato report how Benfica’s coach, Bruno Lage, has distanced himself from transfer talk, or rather, he has reiterated that as with all the great talents at the Portuguese club, it will take significant sums to pry them away from his management. Despite Antonio Silva not being among the regular starters this season, and despite his agent Jorge Mendes pushing for a move to Turin, the Lisbon club’s priority remains financial, with the €100 million release clause looming in the background.
Lage addressed the situation directly: “For us, it’s absolutely not a problem. Firstly, because no one has spoken to me about it, and secondly, because I see the player completely focused on Benfica. Just yesterday we worked on some specific situations regarding his position. He is motivated and concentrated, very determined to help Benfica become champions. At the end of the season, those without a contract can decide their future, those who have one will have to wait and see the clauses in place. One thing is certain: whoever wants Benfica players must come with a very full wallet.”
