Benfica finalizes the signing of Lorenzo Lucca and promises to shake up the market.

Benfica is one step away from securing the signing of Lorenzo Lucca, a 25-year-old forward, in a move that promises to shake up the transfer market. The player was not utilized by coach António Conte in the intense clash between Napoli and Inter, which ended in a 2-2 draw, signaling the potential end of his connection with the Italian club. With Benfica accelerating negotiations, it is imperative that this transfer is concluded quickly, as the club’s management has other pending matters to address.

Contacts between Benfica and Napoli are expected to resume today, with the intention of the Lisbon club to finalize the operation as soon as possible. The urgency is evident, especially with José Mourinho placing Lucca at the top of his list of priorities to strengthen the attack. The forward, who has only accumulated 46 minutes in nine matches, having been used in five of them, does not appear to be a viable option for Conte, which may facilitate his departure.

Napoli, which acquired Lucca from Udinese on a loan deal worth 9 million euros, has a mandatory purchase clause set at 26 million, which must be activated by February. This bureaucratic tangle is crucial for the continuation of the negotiation. Additionally, the Italian forward is also closely monitored by Nottingham Forest, which could complicate the situation for Benfica if they do not act quickly.

José Mourinho is looking for a player who brings significant physical presence to the attack, something that Lucca offers, especially compared to options like Pavlidis or Ivanovic. The coach needs to ensure playing time for Lucca, who is being sought after by other teams, increasing the pressure on Benfica to finalize the transfer.

But it’s not just Lucca that is on the radar of the club from Luz. Benfica is also searching for a winger, with André Luiz from Rio Ave being the main target. The 23-year-old has rejected a proposal of 12 million euros, plus 3 million in bonuses, but continues to dream of wearing the red jersey. The process, however, is currently stalled, and the player is eagerly awaiting developments.

Meanwhile, another alternative is emerging on the horizon: Wesley from Al Nassr, who is available for 15 million euros. This scenario is becoming increasingly interesting as the pressure to strengthen the squad grows. Benfica, with a history of major signings, needs to act quickly to ensure that not only Lucca but also other strategic reinforcements arrive at Luz before the transfer window closes.