According to reports from L`Équipe, midfielder Thiago Almada, aged 24, is reportedly moving closer to a permanent transfer to SL Benfica rather than securing another loan spell at Olympique Lyonnais.
Almada joined Lyon on a free loan last winter from sister club Botafogo. During his time with the French side, he made 20 appearances across all competitions, including four in the UEFA Europa League, scoring two goals and providing five assists. However, recent developments suggest his future lies away from France.
While a new loan to Lyon is still said to be a possibility, Benfica is now heavily involved in discussions. The Portuguese club has reportedly opened talks for a deal valued at €28 million to acquire 60% of the player`s economic rights. Almada himself is reportedly open to the move to Portugal, with his representatives viewing it as a potentially less complicated environment. A significant draw for Benfica is also the prospect of UEFA Champions League football, as they are set to enter the competition in the third qualifying round.
For Lyon, losing Almada would represent a setback on the field, particularly following the departure of creative player Rayan Cherki. However, the club is expected to benefit financially from a potential transfer. L`Équipe indicates that Lyon is set to receive a portion of the transfer fee from any move to Benfica or another European club, based on a prior agreement related to the player.
