Benfica's new addition, Enzo Barrenechea, arrives in Lisbon and expresses his joy
Enzo Barrenechea, an Argentine midfielder, is set to join Portuguese powerhouse Benfica following a permanent transfer from Aston Villa. The 24-year-old is expected to arrive in Lisbon in the coming hours, having left the Premier League club on a deal reportedly worth around £10.4 million.
Barrenechea's contract with Aston Villa will not be extended, as the club has entered exclusive negotiations with Benfica for a permanent sale. The transfer marks a significant profit for Aston Villa, who had loaned Barrenechea to Valencia during the 2024/25 season.
Last season, Barrenechea scored one goal and provided two assists in 32 games for Valencia, impressing with his performances in Spain. His impressive form earned him a call-up to the Benfica squad, where he is yet to make his debut.
The news of Barrenechea's arrival was confirmed by Benfica's Sporting Director, Rui Pedro Braz, who also revealed that the midfielder had expressed his happiness about joining the club. Braz returned from a trip to Brazil to negotiate the signing of Richard Ríos, another promising talent.
Barrenechea's transfer was a top priority for Benfica manager Bruno Lage, following the club's failed attempt to sign Thiago Almada. The Argentine midfielder is expected to strengthen Lage's squad and contribute to Benfica's continued success in the Portuguese league and European competitions.
It's worth noting that John Textor, the American businessman who owns several clubs, including Olympique Lyon in France and Botafogo in Brazil, owns the remaining percentage of Thiago Almada. This connection between the two transfers could potentially signal a growing partnership between the clubs owned by Textor.
As Barrenechea undergoes his medical examinations, the details of the agreement between the clubs are yet to be fully disclosed. However, reports suggest that the agreement includes an option to buy for 15 million euros, which can become mandatory upon the fulfillment of certain objectives.
The news was updated at 12:08 PM, marking the official confirmation of Enzo Barrenechea's move to Benfica. The Argentine midfielder was recognised at Humberto Delgado Airport by several journalists, signalling the start of a new chapter in his career.
Enzo Barrenechea's departure from the Premier League and move to Benfica opens the door for him to showcase his talents in international sports, such as football, specifically the European-leagues. With his impressive form in Spain and the agreement that reportedly includes an option to buy for 15 million euros, the Argentine midfielder is poised to add strength to Benfica's squad, contributing to their continued success not only in the Portuguese league but also in European competitions, like the Premier league.
