Dodi Lukebakio Set for Benfica Switch in €30m Deal

Benfica have agreed to sign Belgian winger Dodi Lukebakio from Sevilla. He will sign a contract until June 2030. Lukebakio will have his medical on Monday before completing the move.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Benfica and Sevilla have made a deal for Dodi Lukebakio. The Portuguese champions will pay about €30 million for the 27-year-old attacker. Lukebakio scored six goals in La Liga for Sevilla last season, making him a pivotal player for the team. He started in Sevilla’s first two league games this season and scored against Athletic Club, despite losing both matches. Benfica moved fast to finish the transfer before the window closed, wanting to strengthen their attack during this busy summer.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Benfica want to continue their success after finishing as runner ups in the Primeira Liga title last season. They are now top in the league after four matches, level on points with FC Porto. The Eagles recently won 2-1 against Alverca. Their next game is against Santa Clara, who are near the bottom of the league, before playing Qarabag for their first match of the Champions League group stage. Lukebakio’s arrival adds even more strength to a team that already had one of the league’s best attacks, scoring 10 goals in the first few rounds. For Sevilla, selling Lukebakio is part of their plan to raise money and reduce costs as they look to rebuild after finishing 17th in La Liga last season as they currently sit in 12th. Losing their main threat means coach Matias Almeyda has to find new solutions quickly.

WHAT NEXT FOR BENFICA AND LUKeBAKIO?

Lukebakio will finish his medical in Lisbon. He is expected to be officially introduced at the Estádio da Luz this week. If registered in time, he might play in Benfica’s next match against Santa Clara after the international break. Looking forward, Benfica will also begin their Champions League group games later this month. They hope Lukebakio’s European experience will help them be successful. Meanwhile, Sevilla must adapt quickly as they get ready for a tough match against Elche, as they aim to reach safe spots as soon as possible. Without Lukebakio, there is more pressure on Almeyda’s team to avoid another difficult start to the season.