- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC Football understands that Benfica have reached an agreement with Santos over Marcos Leonardo, amid interest from numerous Premier League clubs.
South American sources have confirmed to HITC Football that Marcos Leonardo is ready to move to Benfica, despite previously holding a desire to move to England this window.
Various Premier League outlets were looking to secure the signature of the highly rated 20-year-old forward.
However, it appears none of them are set to win the race, with Portugal looking like his new destination.
Numerous Premier League clubs were after Marcos Leonardo
West Ham were seriously looking into the deal and had held talks over a prospective loan with an obligation, but the deal has faltered and now he is heading to Benfica – who are ready to finalise terms with Santos at around €18m.
Crystal Palace, Everton and Wolves also had talks in recent weeks with intermediaries, whilst initial interest from Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea never materialised.
Instead, Leonardo will strut his stuff in Portugal, looking to help Benfica to the Liga Portuguesa title and a potential Europa League win – where they could very well face a club who held major interest in the Brazilian, David Moyes‘ West Ham.
Leonardo for Santos
Despite Santos’ disastrous season in the Brazilian first division, with the club relegated for the first time in its 111-year history – Leonardo was a shining light.
He scored 21 goals in 49 games in 2023, but even this wasn’t enough to see his beloved Santos related to the Serie B.
Leonardo has been part of the Santos ranks since the age of 11, making his way up to become a first-team star.
Now, a new challenge beckons – where he will try to announce himself on the European stage with As Águias.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
