What changed
2026-08-06 20:35 UTC → 2026-08-07 16:23 UTC ·
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In late Late July 2026 saw FC Barcelona identified place Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, on its transfer list, with Spanish media estimating a €40‑50 million fee. Early August, Turkish side Fenerbahçe submitted a €40 million bid, later raising it to €50 million, but Benfica rejected the offer, insisting on a fee around €70 million. price tag. The club highlighted Pavlidis’s 27‑year‑old, under contract with S.L. Benfica until 2029, 2029 and carrying a €100 million release clause, and his record of 112 appearances, 64 goals and 18 assists, including had already attracted interest as a 5‑0 Europa League qualifying win over Celtic. Coach Marco Silva stressed his central role and the club’s intention to keep him. possible replacement for Robert Lewandowski. On 4 5 August Benfica reiterated that it would not consider any offer below the €70 million threshold. The next day Pavlidis scored a he added another penalty in a 3‑0 Europa League playoff victory win over Hearts, his third in the tie, maintaining bringing his season tally of to 22 league goals in 33 matches. His form sparked prompted fresh interest speculation from Real Madrid, Juventus and Atletico Madrid, with reported transfer odds of roughly €51 million, €31 million and €9 million respectively. Two days later Turkish side Fenerbahçe intensified talks, indicating willingness to meet a fee of around €45 million – still below the €70 million floor Benfica has set for any offer. Coach Marco Silva reiterated that Pavlidis is a “big professional” happy at the club and that Benfica will act within its limits. Benfica continues to retain the striker while multiple European clubs monitor striker, emphasizing his contract length, release clause and recent performances as they navigate the evolving situation. ongoing interest from several European clubs.