Luisao came close to signing for Wolves. Now he is back entrenched as a Benfica regular.
Luisao
Wolves’ takeover last July was a prelude to a frenetic August which saw them battle to bring big name signings to Molineux.
It was hit and miss to say the least, just take the difference in quality and impact from Helder Costa to Paul Gladon.
One big name who came very close to signing at Wolves was Brazilian veteran Luisao.
The centre-back has made 500 appearances for Benfica and is their club captain. He is now 36, and began to lose his place in the first team at the end of last season.
Luisao
Last summer there was a feeling he was being pushed out, with The Mail reporting he was set for talks with Wolves over a move, pushed by the club owners Fosun International’s links with Benfica, and middle man Jorge Mendes.
Portuguese newspaper O Jogo even claimed Luisao was in London to complete a switch to Wolves in late August, but this turned out to be premature.
Luisao eventually decided against a move to Wolves, and it appears to have been a good decision.
Luisao
Wolves’ manager Walter Zenga was sacked within months, and they have never looked like challenging for a play-off spot.
At Benfica he has regained his place in the first team, and been a big part of their success. He has made 32 appearances in the Primeira Liga this season, starring in the heart of their defence and recently signed a one year contract extension.
Benfica currently sit top of the league by three points, and Luisao ends the campaign with everything to play for, while Wolves are contesting a dead rubber this weekend on the final day of their season.
The 44 capped Brazilian’s choice to stay has already been proved a success, and if goes on to win his sixth league title then it will seem even better.
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