Benfica in advanced talks to replace departing centre‑back Otamendi

Benfica director‑general Mário Branco said the club is in "very advanced" negotiations to sign a centre‑back who will fill the vacancy left by Nicolás Otamendi, who has ended his contract and joined River Plate. No name has been confirmed, but Branco stressed that the new signing will complement the recently acquired 17‑year‑old Brazilian defender Gabriel Índio, signed from Atlético‑MG for €4 million.

Branco expects the replacement to be integrated in the coming days, allowing Benfica to finalize its squad before the market closes at the end of August. He highlighted the club’s strategy of balancing youthful talent from the Benfica Campus with experienced players to compete in the upcoming Europa League campaign.