Richard Rios on the Move: Benfica Close to Signing Palmeiras Midfielder

Colombian midfielder Richard Rios is going to Lisbon to finish his move from Palmeiras to Benfica. The deal is worth about €30 million and will make him Benfica’s newest player. Benfica wants to make their team stronger for the upcoming season. Reports confirm that Benfica has agreed on a fee for the talented midfielder.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Richard Rios said goodbye to Palmeiras fans at Allianz Parque before the team’s recent match as he gets ready to officially join Benfica. The 25-year-old did not play in the game against Atletico Mineiro because of an agreement with his new team. Benfica’s executive director, Rui Pedro Braz, went to São Paulo to close the deal, which was finalized after talks with both Palmeiras and the player’s agents. Rios’s move to Portugal comes despite interest from big European clubs like Roma, Atalanta, Everton, and Manchester United. Roma’s offer was the same as Benfica’s, but Rios ultimately chose to join Benfica.

A STAR ON THE RISE

Rios leaves Palmeiras as a fan favorite, having helped the team win two Paulista Championships in 2023 and 2024, and also win the 2023 Brasileirao title. Since joining from Guarani in 2023, Rios played in 138 games and scored 11 goals for Palmeiras. He was recognized as one of the best midfielders in South America during Colombia’s Copa America run last year and is still a regular in the national team, now playing in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. His energetic style and technical quality caught attention from all over Europe after great performances in local competitions and the FIFA Club World Cup.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BENFICA AND RIOS?

The arrival of Rios strengthens Benfica’s midfield as they get ready for the 2025/26 season, aiming to compete for the Primeira Liga title and make an impact in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Last season, Benfica finished second in the Primeira Liga, just behind Sporting CP, and will be looking to close that gap with their new player as they prepare for the upcoming season. The club starts their league season in one month against Rio Ave, who finished mid-table last season. Rios is expected to join the team immediately and might play in their Champions League opener in mid-September. Palmeiras, on the other hand, must adjust after losing an important player as they continue their fight at the top of the Brazilian Serie A, currently just four points behind league leaders Flamengo.