Richard Ríos appears set to join Benfica after reports from Portuguese media reveal that a deal has been finalized between the Lisbon club and Palmeiras. According to Bola na Rede, “Richard Ríos é reforço do Benfica para a próxima temporada. Já há acordo fechado entre os encarnados e o Palmeiras de Abel Ferreira” (Richard Ríos is Benfica’s reinforcement for next season. There is already a closed agreement between the Eagles and Abel Ferreira’s Palmeiras).
After weeks of intense speculation linking the 25-year-old Colombian international with multiple European giants, Richard Ríos is very close to being Benfica’s reinforcement. The player is preparing to leave Palmeiras in the coming days, according to the latest Portuguese reports published just hours ago.
This development is a big coup for Benfica, who have reportedly outmaneuvered several high-profile competitors including AS Roma, Manchester United, and Inter Milan in the race for one of South America’s most promising midfield talents.
The Transfer Battle That Led to This Moment
The path to this agreement has been far from straightforward. AS Roma had made their move for Colombian midfielder Richard Rios by submitting an official bid to Palmeiras worth a total of €30 million, according to Fabrizio Romano. The offer included €27 million as a fixed fee and €3 million in performance-related add-ons, appearing to meet Palmeiras’ valuation demands.
However, Roma’s fresh offer worth €27 million plus add-ons was still being evaluated by Palmeiras, who had been insisting on a fixed fee of €30 million. The Brazilian club’s firm stance on their valuation ultimately created the opening that Benfica appears to have exploited.
Manchester United’s Strategic Interest Falls Short
Manchester United had been linked with the midfielder, with Palmeiras star Richard Rios being one of the most exciting talents at the Club World Cup. The Red Devils had reportedly viewed Ríos as a potential long-term successor to Casemiro, recognizing his technical abilities and relative youth as perfect for their midfield restructuring project under Rúben Amorim.
However, despite their interest and strategic planning, Manchester United appears to have been outmaneuvered by Benfica’s more decisive approach to negotiations.
Inter Milan and Roma Left Frustrated
Roma had submitted an official offer for Palmeiras star Richard Rios, intensifying the competition with Inter Milan for his signature, but both Italian giants have ultimately been unsuccessful in their pursuit. Inter Milan, who had initially shown interest in Ríos as a potential replacement for Hakan Calhanoglu, found themselves falling behind in the race as other clubs showed more aggressive pursuit.
Player Profile and What Benfica Are Getting
Richard Ríos brings exceptional quality to Benfica’s midfield setup. His impressive performances during the 2025 Club World Cup, where he helped Palmeiras reach the quarter-finals, have reinforced his reputation as one of South America’s most complete midfield talents.
The Colombian international’s technical abilities, combined with his tactical intelligence and physical presence, make him ideally suited to European football. His versatility in midfield positions and his ability to contribute both defensively and in the attacking phase align perfectly with Benfica’s playing philosophy.
Financial Details and Market Implications
While specific financial details of Benfica’s successful bid remain undisclosed, the deal appears to have satisfied Palmeiras’ €30 million valuation that had been established throughout the summer. The Brazilian club’s insistence on meeting their asking price ultimately worked in their favor, securing maximum value for their prized asset.
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For Benfica, securing Ríos is a big statement of intent in both domestic and European competitions. The Portuguese giants have demonstrated their ability to compete with some of Europe’s biggest clubs in the transfer market, adding significant quality to their squad ahead of the new season.
The completion of this transfer marks the end of one of the summer’s most intriguing midfield pursuits. For Richard Ríos, the move to Benfica offers the perfect platform to establish himself in European football while maintaining his visibility for Colombia’s national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This deal is an excellent business for all parties involved, Palmeiras receive their desired fee, Benfica secure a world-class talent, and Ríos gets his European opportunity. The coming days should see the official announcement and completion of all formalities, bringing this extended transfer saga to its conclusion.
