Benfica Set to Sign Franjo Ivanović in Record Deal

Benfica are close to signing striker Franjo Ivanović from Union Saint-Gilloise. The deal is worth €28 million. Ivanović will sign a contract until June 2030 after passing his medical in Lisbon.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Benfica and Union Saint-Gilloise have agreed on the transfer of Franjo Ivanović. The deal includes a €23 million fee plus €5 million in add-ons and a sell-on clause. Ivanović will soon complete his medical in Lisbon, then he will sign a long-term contract with Benfica until 2030.

IVANOVIĆ’S RISE AND RECENT FORM

Franjo Ivanović is 21 years old and joined Union Saint-Gilloise in 2024. In his first season, he scored 24 goals and provided 9 assists in 56 matches. His performances attracted interest from European clubs, including Eintracht Frankfurt and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Despite a higher financial offer from Wolves, Ivanović chose Benfica for their project and sporting vision.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR BENFICA AND WHAT’S NEXT

Benfica want to strengthen their attack to win the Primeira Liga in 2025/26, after finishing second last season, as confirmed by reports on the league standings that indicated Benfica finished as runners-up to Sporting. With the departures of Arthur Cabral and Angel Di Maria creating gaps in the squad, Ivanović is expected to be an important signing. Benfica will start their season against Rio Ave, as they aim to close the two-point gap to champions Sporting CP. Union Saint-Gilloise, who won the Belgian Pro League last year, will reinvest the record transfer fee as they prepare for the Champions League qualifiers. Benfica will focus on integrating Ivanović quickly and hope his goal-scoring ability leads them back to the top of Portuguese football.