Benfica Breaks Transfer Record to Secure Georgiy Sudakov

Benfica has signed Ukrainian midfielder Georgiy Sudakov from Shakhtar Donetsk for €27 million, plus €5 million in bonuses, marking a new club record. This deal also includes a 25% sell-on clause for Shakhtar, reflecting the club’s intent to secure valuable assets for the future. The transfer fee underlines Benfica’s commitment to strengthening their squad.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Sudakov is expected in Lisbon today to complete his medical and sign his contract, which would officially make him the costliest player in Benfica‘s history. The 22-year-old midfielder was a key player for Shakhtar last season, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 25 Ukrainian Premier League games. He has also performed exceptionally in European competitions and is a regular for the Ukraine national team, having represented them 28 times. By shattering their previous transfer record, which was established in 2023 for Orkun Kökçü, Benfica has made Sudakov their top target this time around after his Turkish predecessor was sold to Besiktas for 30 million € earlier this summer.

BENFICA’S AMBITIONS AND SQUAD BOOST

The addition of Sudakov comes as Benfica looks to build on a strong start to the 2025/26 Primeira Liga campaign. Currently, the squad is positioned second in the standings, level on points with FC Porto and Sporting CP. In their first three matches, Benfica has a 100% winning record. Sudakov is expected to don the number 10 shirt for Benfica this season, as confirmed in recent reports indicating his jersey number choice. His inventiveness, work rate, and goal-scoring ability are expected to bring a new dimension to Benfica’s midfield as the club aims to reclaim the league title and advance far in the UEFA Champions League.

WHAT NEXT FOR BENFICA AND SUDAKOV?

As Benfica prepares for an important match against Alverca, who are in the relegation spots and looking at getting out of those positions as soon as possible, Sudakov’s signing is expected to have an immediate impact. With Champions League group stage fixtures getting underway, Sudakov’s integration into the squad will be closely scrutinized by supporters and club officials. Shakhtar, on the other hand, stands to benefit financially from this transaction, along with the potential windfall from the sell-on clause if Sudakov moves again in the future. Meanwhile, Benfica expects their record signing to help them close the gap at the top of the table and lead them through a tough European campaign.