Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee Gonçalo Guedes has suddenly been involved in a transfer saga, as reports have been saying that he could leave Benfica for Villarreal in January.
Earlier on Tuesday, we covered reports from Spain which said he’s ‘one step away’ from joining the La Liga side, even though he needs the green light from the Eagles for that.
The Wolves player was now a subject at Benfica’s press conference today, as manager Roger Schmidt was asked whether the striker is staying or leaving. The quotes come from A Bola.
The coach wasn’t very direct about the player’s transfer situation, but made it clear that there were some factors stopping him from showing his best version at Benfica lately.
“I can’t confirm anything. Gonçalo is an important player for Benfica. I think that because of the injuries he suffered last year and in September, he’s still affected. It’s always difficult. He didn’t have a pre-season to reach a high level. He kept playing. But never consistently. That’s why he was often only able to play between 20 and 25 minutes.”
“He’s an excellent player, dangerous when it comes to finishing. To reach the top level he’ll have to play more games and, of course, his physical condition will have to improve. We have to support him, he’s always positive. The season isn’t over yet and there are other players, like Neres, Bernat, Tengstedt, who have suffered injuries and will need time to get fit.”
Guedes had already been loaned by Wolves to Benfica last January, but was unable to play much due to injuries. The deal was renewed in the summer, but things haven’t been great this season either.
A new loan at Villarreal would give him some fresh air and maybe impact on a permanent sale, which will be very much welcome by the Molineux side.
