Benfica edging closer to sealing agreement for Thiago Almada | OneFootball

Benfica are intensifying their pursuit of midfielder Thiago Almada and are close to striking a deal with Botafogo, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

Almada spent the second half of last season on loan at Olympique Lyon, scoring 2 goals and providing four assists across all competitions and helping his side reach the Europa League quarterfinal.

Lyon are keen to retain him permanently, although the Ligue 1 outfit are currently handicapped by financial issues that have seen them relegated from the French top flight at the moment.

This has left Benfica in pole position to land the Argentina international, with negotiations between Benfica and Eagle Football Holdings, the group controlling both Botafogo and Lyon, accelerating in recent days.

Benfica initially submitted a bid of around €35 million for Almada, which was promptly rejected by Eagle Football Holdings.

However, discussions remain active between the two parties who are now reportedly closing the gap on a potential agreement.

Benfica are preparing to present an improved offer, believed to be in the region of €40 million, in hopes of securing the talented midfielder’s signature.

After missing out on domestic titles last season, As Aguias are eager to reinforce their squad, and they see Almada as a key target to bolster their creative department, having recently waved goodbye to Angel Di Maria.

Bruno Lage’s side are also eyeing a move for Chelsea’s Joao Felix six years after he left Estadio da Luz for a whopping €126 million.