Franjo Ivanović linked with Real Betis as Benfica eye transfer

Croatian forward Franjo Ivanović, signed by S.L. Benfica in 2022 for €22.8 million from Union Saint‑Gilloise, failed to secure a regular place in the first team under José Mourinho, who preferred fellow striker Vangelis Pavlidis. With limited minutes last season and new competition from Colombian forward Jhon Durán, Benfica is reportedly willing to sell.

Real Betis have opened formal talks with Benfica about acquiring Ivanović, while other clubs – Italy's Lazio, Turkey's Galatasaray and England's Hull City – have also shown interest. The Portuguese side is said to be seeking a fee that reflects the player's potential, and a move to Betis would give Ivanović a chance to become a regular starter in La Liga.