Dodi Lukebakio Set to Join Benfica in €30m Deal From Sevilla

Dodi Lukebakio is heading to Lisbon. He is set to join Benfica in a big transfer deal. The Portuguese club agreed with Sevilla late last night to make it happen.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Dodi Lukebakio, a 27-year-old Belgian forward, is joining Benfica. The club agreed with Sevilla to pay almost €30 million for him. This deal marks a new club record for Benfica, highlighting their ambition in the transfer market according to recent reports. The deal moved quickly over the weekend. Lukebakio is already on his way to Portugal. Today, he will have a medical check and sign his contract. Sevilla wanted to move some players to sign new ones; Lukebakio was an important player to sell. Benfica attracted him with their Champions League status. Several clubs, including Nottingham Forest, were interested in him. Benfica moved fast to sign him.

BENFICA’S SEASON AND LUKENBAKIO’S IMPACT

Benfica wants to improve their attack after a mixed start to the season. They are currently positioned second in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, level on points with FC Porto as per recent standings. The team struggled to score in important matches. Lukebakio is versatile and can score goals. He made 39 appearances for Sevilla last season, scoring nine goals and assisting seven times. His energy and direct style will help Benfica in important future games. Benfica’s next league match is against Santa Clara, who are struggling in the beginning of the season. Winning will be very important for Champions League qualifying places.

WHAT NEXT FOR SEVILLA AND BENFICA?

Sevilla needs to replace Lukebakio. They are close to signing Alexis Sánchez as a substitute. His experience might stabilize the squad. Sevilla are currently struggling in the early rounds of the 2025-26 La Liga season, sitting in 12th place after beating Granada this weekend according to reports. Benfica needs to quickly integrate Lukebakio ahead of a challenging September schedule. Benfica’s next game is against Santa Clara, before playign Qarabag for their first Champions League match. Also, Benfica’s Champions League season will start soon. Lukebakio’s arrival will be crucial, as Benfica hopes to stay close to FC Porto in the standings. Lukebakio’s early adaptation and performances will impact Benfica’s ambitions this year, in both the league and Europe.