Reports in Portugal have confirmed that Portuguese side Benfica remains very much interested in signing Lucas Paqueta from AC Milan in a swap deal.

The Milan based club look to overhaul their midfield this coming transfer window with players place under threat with likes of Lucas Biglia, Giacomo Bonaventura, and Franck Kessie uncertain about his stay at the club. Paqueta, however, seems to be the most surprising as he has been coy over the move.

Paqueta was signed from Flamengo in January 2019 for €35m. He, however, failed to justify the fee during the first few months in Milan, but rumors have it that the Brazilian is considering a move away from the club.

Benfica has reportedly shown interest in the midfielder and is ready to sign the player to add to their midfield ranks, and the earlier, the better Milan agrees to the deal the suitable it will be for both parties [Benfica and Ac Milan].

Where the ultimate task lies is now is for Benfica to convince the 22-year old who will instead prefer a more competitive league. Milan will also try to persuade the player to try and see if they could get their hands-on Florentino Luis – a defensive-minded player who they have been courting for a long time from Benfica.

Their transfer fees are also similar to each other as Luis transfer fee is also quoted to be in the region of €25 to 30m.

The return date for the Primera Liga is yet to be unknown as countries across Europe remain locked down

Written by: Olumide Akinnifesi