Benfica chase former Real Madrid star as Madrid eye €10m boost

Benfica are keen to sign former Real Madrid academy product Sergio Arribas to bolster their creative options as they chase European qualification. The Portuguese side have opened negotiations with UD Almeria, who have set an asking price of around €20 million for the left‑footed midfielder.

Real Madrid retain 50 % of Arribas’ economic rights, meaning any transfer fee will be split with the Spanish giants. A €20 million deal would therefore generate a €10 million windfall for the Bernabeu.

Arribas left Real Madrid in search of regular first‑team minutes that were unlikely at the club. His subsequent development at Almeria has kept his market value alive, preserving the potential for a profitable exit.

The club’s careful structuring of academy exits allows it to protect future value even when players depart permanently. So far this summer Real Madrid have already secured over €100 million from transfers involving former academy graduates.

Benfica’s reputation for nurturing technical players and competing regularly in European tournaments matches Arribas’ profile as a creative, intelligent midfielder. His left‑footedness and ability to influence the final third make him a fitting addition to the Portuguese side’s tactical setup.

The decisive factor now is whether Benfica can meet Almeria’s €20 million asking price. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are balancing arrivals, exits and squad planning under manager Jose Mourinho, and a cash influx would aid that process.

If the transfer materialises, it will serve as another illustration of Real Madrid’s effective academy asset management. The deal would provide financial flexibility without requiring the movement of any current first‑team player.