Benfica Rejects €15 Million Al Ittihad Bid for Leandro Barreiro
SL Benfica rejected a €15 million transfer offer from Al Ittihad for midfielder Leandro Barreiro, according to regional reporting by Record and subsequent coverage from CNN Portugal. The Saudi Arabian club tabled a bid consisting of €14 million fixed plus €2 million in variables for the Luxembourg international, who has established himself as a regular starter in the Benfica midfield under Marco Silva, contributing one goal and two assistances across seven appearances this season.
The Connection Behind the Al Ittihad Pursuit
The pursuit is being driven by Jens Wissing, the new treinador of Al Ittihad, according to reporting published by Record. Wissing previously worked as an assistant to Roger Schmidt, the coach who contracted Barreiro for the encarnados. Despite this prior relationship and the lucrative financial terms presented by the Middle Eastern club, Benfica leadership under club president Rui Costa has signaled that they will not facilitate an easy exit for the 26-year-old midfielder.
Valuation Discrepancies and Market Context
Media outlets captured differing financial breakdowns of the rejected approach, highlighting how different sources track the same negotiation. While Record initially reported a €15 million proposal, CNN Portugal detailed a structured package of €14 million in fixed payments plus €2 million in variables. Benfica has already made it clear to the Saudi outfit that it will be necessary more money to sell the player. Meanwhile, the Portuguese giants have also faced transfer market attention regarding other squad members, such as Richard Ríos.
Did You Know?
Leandro Barreiro joined Benfica through Roger Schmidt, whose former assistant Jens Wissing is now attempting to bring the Luxembourg international to Saudi Arabia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Al Ittihad offer for Leandro Barreiro?
According to CNN Portugal, Al Ittihad offered 14 milhões de euros fixos e outros dois em variáveis, while initial reports from Record cited a €15 million figure.
Did Benfica accept the offer?
No. According to Record and CNN Portugal, Benfica rejected the proposal and indicated that more money would be required to part ways with the midfielder.
Who manages Al Ittihad?
Jens Wissing leads Al Ittihad, having previously served as an assistant to Roger Schmidt in Luz.
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