Cavani arrival opens the door to Carlos Vinicius exit
In one of the most remarkable moves in Benfica’s history, Uruguayan international Edinson Cavani is set to be unveiled as a Benfica player imminently.
He will arrive on what will be a free transfer, with the 33-year old having seen his previous contract with PSG expire without renewal, though Benfica will be paying approximately 8 million euros to the striker as part of his signing-on agreement.
Other high-profile figures within the game will also be joining him in Lisbon this summer, with Jan Vertonghen and Everton Cebolinha among the other stars Benfica have been able to attract as they look to regain the Portuguese Primeira Liga title and become more competitive on the continental stage.
However, the arrival of Cavani has put Carlos Vinicius’ place at the club in doubt, with it difficult to suitably accomodate two players who will both be anticipating very regular game time and serve similar roles. The anticipated arrival of Waldschmidt makes his exit look even more likely.
One of the terms which ensured Jorge Jesus would return to the club was that Benfica would be looking to keep hold of Vinicius, though that was before Benfica managed to lure Cavani to the Luz. There is therefore a strong possibility that Jesus would now be willing to see the Brazilian depart, with such an experienced and reputable replacement coming to the club.
Vinicius came close to joining Wolves in a 15 million euro move before moving to Benfica last summer, but the player failed to obtain the required work permit, lacking senior game time at club level, and at national level too.
Wolves are the club that are seen as most likely to sign the 25-year old striker, and have not given up in their pursuit of the forward, with Benfica rejecting their bid of 60 million euros for Vinicius back in January 2020, the Lisbon instead looking to receive the value of his release clause (100 million euros).
However, the Covid-19 pandemic ensures that there is a significant chance that Benfica will be willing to reduce their asking price, and would likely be willing to accept 60 million euros should that offer resurface.
It is believed that Wolves will be particularly keen on recruiting Vinicius should Raul Jimenez leave Molineux, though it is not dependent on the Mexican’s future.
