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Richard Ríos joins Al-Ittihad on loan from Benfica

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-28 22:21 UTC → 2026-09-03 06:01 UTC · added removed

Richard Ríos' transfer status and pursuit by European clubs Ríos joins Al-Ittihad on loan from Benfica

Colombian midfielder Richard Ríos began his second season with Portuguese club Benfica, where he was expected to play a key role in both the Primeira Liga and the Europa League under coach Marco Silva. During the season's start, Ríos shared the dressing room with fellow Colombian forward Jhon Durán, following their joint appearance in a 5-0 victory over St. Gallen. However, shortly after the season's start, Benfica placed Ríos on its transfer list as part of a broader effort to balance the club's finances. The club is reportedly seeking to generate approximately €60 million in sales, with Ríos valued between €40 million and €45 million. While interest has been was noted from Newcastle United and United, Napoli, no formal offers had been submitted initially, AS Roma, and a return to Brazilian football Galatasaray, no permanent sale was ruled out. As the European transfer window nears its close, AS Roma has entered finalized during the pursuit to bolster its midfield. Sporting director Tony D’Amico has initiated contact with Ríos’ representatives and submitted an initial proposal. Negotiations face an economic hurdle, as Benfica is reportedly seeking pursuit. In a valuation near €30 million. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini recent development, Benfica has publicly emphasized the necessity of adding at least one more midfielder to complete the squad following finalized a 4-0 victory over Fiorentina. Competition loan deal for the player has intensified with Galatasaray entering the race. The Turkish club has made contact Ríos to understand negotiation terms join Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad for the 26-year-old, though 2026-2027 season. The agreement does not include a purchase option, ensuring Ríos remains a Benfica player through 2030. Al-Ittihad is reportedly unwilling expected to release him pay approximately €3 million for less than €35 million. Galatasaray may need to sell squad members to fund a formal offer. Other clubs monitoring the situation include Brighton loan and Al-Ittihad. Should a sale occur, will cover his full salary. Alongside this move, Benfica is considering Gustavo Puerta as a replacement, aided by increased midfield depth following has also secured Argentine midfielder Claudio Echeverri on loan from Manchester City for the arrival 2026/27 season, an agreement that includes a potential purchase option of João Palhinha. up to €15 million.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-03 06:01 UTC Richard Ríos joins Al-Ittihad on loan from Benfica
  2. 2026-08-28 22:21 UTC Richard Ríos' transfer status and pursuit by European clubs
  3. 2026-08-25 02:38 UTC Richard Ríos' tenure and transfer status at Benfica
  4. 2026-08-08 13:11 UTC Richard Ríos' tenure at Benfica

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