Portuguese giants Benfica are reportedly leading the race to sign Argentine defensive midfielder Enzo Barrenechea from English club Aston Villa. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Benfica currently holds priority in discussions, a development that puts them in a strong position while other clubs wait in the wings.
Contrary to some speculation, particularly reports emerging from Spain, Aston Villa is not actively negotiating with other teams for the 24-year-old midfielder at this time. Their focus remains solely on finding a resolution, positive or negative, with the Lisbon-based club before considering alternative offers. This exclusive window gives Benfica a clear path, provided they can meet the financial demands.
The Player and the Need
Barrenechea spent the previous season on loan at Spanish side Valencia, where he demonstrated his capabilities in the defensive midfield role. He made 32 appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists, and his performances were deemed impressive enough to earn him a call-up to Lionel Scaloni`s Argentina national squad. This international recognition underscores his potential and profile.
Benfica`s interest is driven by a clear strategic need. The defensive midfield was identified as a weak link during the 2023/24 season, a position the club aims to strengthen decisively. Manager Bruno Lage is reportedly eager to finalize the signing swiftly. Furthermore, the pursuit of Enzo Barrenechea carries a certain symbolic weight within the club`s recent history, recalling the successful tenures of previous Argentine midfielders named Enzo – Enzo Pérez and Enzo Fernández – who became fan favorites before securing lucrative transfers abroad. Finding the next “Enzo” to anchor the midfield has become something of a quest.
Negotiation Details and Valuation
While negotiations are described as well underway, securing Barrenechea will require a significant investment. Early reports had suggested a figure around €10 million might be sufficient, but current indications point towards a transfer fee exceeding €12 million. Aston Villa signed Barrenechea from Juventus just a year ago for €7 million and are naturally looking to make a substantial profit on their investment. This negotiation is less about a fire sale and more about extracting fair market value, or perhaps a little more.
Benfica is reportedly exploring alternative deal structures to facilitate the transfer, potentially attempting to acquire only a percentage of the player`s economic rights rather than a full purchase. This approach could make the initial outlay more palatable for Benfica while allowing Aston Villa to retain a stake in Barrenechea`s future value, potentially benefiting from a future transfer down the line. It`s a common strategy in football transfers, a way to share the risk and potential reward.
Benfica Alone in the Race (For Now)
Reports linking other clubs, such as FC Porto, to Barrenechea appear to be less concrete than initially portrayed. While FC Porto reportedly made contact with the player`s agent, they have not submitted a formal offer to Aston Villa. This leaves Benfica with a clear run at their primary midfield target.
The determination to secure Barrenechea is evident. Benfica is focused on adding a crucial piece to their squad structure, addressing a key area for improvement. The coming days will reveal if the clubs can reach a financial agreement and complete the transfer, potentially adding another talented Argentine midfielder to the Eagles` ranks and perhaps continuing the curious “Enzo” tradition.
