EDINSON CAVANI is closing in on a free transfer to Benfica after reportedly agreeing to the move.
The Uruguayan striker, 33, was out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the June.
Edinson Cavani left Paris Saint-Germain to become a free agent and is expected to sign for BenficaCredit: Getty – Contributor
And despite having two cup finals and the Champions League knockout stages still to play, he opted against a short-term extension.
The lethal finisher departs the French champions with 16 major trophies in seven dominant years and became PSG’s record goalscorer with 200 strikes in 301 appearances.
But now a free agent, a deal with Benfica is thought to be virtually sealed and could be announced imminently.
According to Record in Portugal, talks did break down last week with a deal on the verge of collapse.
But those issues have been resolved and Cavani is expected to pen a two-year deal.
Cavani’s half-brother and agent Walter Guglielmone is said to have been holding talks with Benfica.
Benfica club president Luis Filipe Vieira has reportedly been present at the negotiations with the player’s representative, before the addition of various directors.
Benfica finished the season in second, five points adrift of Porto.
And the offer of European football looks to have done enough to convince Cavani to join – rather than go to Leeds who were also very interested.
Since earning promotion earlier in the month, the Yorkshire side were thought to have held their own talks with Guglielmone.
Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani admitted a deal for fellow target Zlatan Ibrahimovic would be “difficult” but was more optimistic Cavani could be tempted.
The Italian told Sky Sports Italia: “In addition to his quality, Cavani could contribute with his physicality and adapt here, but I’ve never talked about him with the coach.
“Having said that, we’ve certainly thought about him and we’ll see, given he’s still available on a free transfer.”
Portuguese newspaper Record wrote “New attack on Cavani” on the front page
Edinson Cavani ‘agrees Benfica transfer’ with final details to be ironed out in huge blow to Leeds
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
