Leandro Barreiro, the promising midfielder from Benfica, is under the watchful eye of Al Ittihad, which is seeking a versatile player to fill the void left by former Brazilian international Fabinho. Coach Jens Wissing, who has previously worked with Barreiro at Benfica, has expressed interest in the player, with the Saudi club having contacted the Eagles to discuss his availability and transfer fee.
Benfica has valued Leandro Barreiro at €18 million, an amount that Al Ittihad considers too high for its current financial capabilities. The club's management, aware that they will not be able to meet the asking price, is already exploring other options in the market, with the possibility of returning to negotiate with Benfica depending on the evolution of their search.
Barreiro, who joined Benfica in 2024 on a free transfer from Mainz, has stood out as a crucial member of the Eagles' squad last season, where he formed a double pivot with Fredrik Aursnes. His development and impact on the game have attracted attention, but financial issues could be an obstacle to the completion of the transfer.
Barreiro's situation illustrates the financial difficulties that many clubs are currently facing, especially the Saudis, who have been looking to strengthen their teams but encounter barriers due to market values. The immediate future of the Luxembourg midfielder at Benfica appears secure, at least until Al Ittihad decides whether to intensify negotiations. The unfolding of this situation could influence not only the player's career but also Benfica's reinforcement strategy in this transfer window.
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