Benfica's Prestianni nears €20M Trabzonspor move after salary impasse, Argentine reports say
Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni is on the verge of leaving Benfica for Trabzonspor, with a fee around €20 million and a tripled salary, according to reports from Argentina.
Transfer agreement
Argentine journalist Germán García Grova reported on Wednesday that Benfica and Trabzonspor have reached a principle of agreement for the transfer of Gianluca Prestianni. The Turkish club is offering around €20 million for the 20-year-old winger, along with what the source describes as a "stratospheric salary" on a three-year contract. The deal would see Prestianni leave the Estádio da Luz after two seasons.
The Turkish club offered a fee around 20 million euros for the Benfica winger, also guaranteeing a stratospheric salary on a three-year contract.
Player's stance and salary dispute
Prestianni had recently told radio Velez670 that he intended to stay at Benfica and impress new coach José Mourinho. However, SIC Notícias commentator Luís Aguilar revealed that the player had requested a salary increase to reflect his growing status, which the club refused. Trabzonspor then offered to triple his current wages, creating an impasse.
I'm coming back on Tuesday night for pre-season. We have two friendlies, against Flamengo and Villarreal. I only think about returning to Benfica, we have a new coach. I want to show my abilities, I'm focused on that. I want to triumph at Benfica.
Aguilar claims the Turkish side is using behind-the-scenes tactics to "turn the player's head" and create a rift with Benfica, aiming to force a lower transfer fee. Benfica, led by president Rui Costa, considers the €20 million offer insufficient and refuses to negotiate at that price, dismissing the player's and agents' pressure as a "tantrum".
Impact on Benfica's squad
Should the transfer be confirmed, coach Marco Silva (as referenced in one report) would be left with only Jakub Kaminski and Bruma as senior wide options for the upcoming Europa League qualifier against St. Gallen. Kaminski is still recovering from a serious injury suffered last season, further thinning the attack.
Background and career
Prestianni joined Benfica from Vélez Sarsfield in the 2023/24 season for €9 million. Last season was his best yet, with 41 appearances, three goals and five assists across all competitions. In total, he played 56 games for the first team, scoring four times and providing seven assists, plus 11 matches for the B team.
- Joined Benfica from Vélez Sarsfield for €9 million.
- Played 41 games, scored 3 goals, assisted 5 in all competitions.
- Agreement in principle with Trabzonspor for €20 million transfer reported.
