Brighton defender Olivier Boscagli is back in Benfica’s thinking this summer. Reports in Portugal claim the club have revived their interest as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements.
This is not the first time Benfica have looked at the Frenchman. The Lisbon club were interested in Boscagli in 2025. This was when he was coming towards the end of his contract at PSV Eindhoven.
A move never happened and the defender eventually made the switch to England. Now, according to Portuguese reports, his name has returned to Benfica’s shortlist. They are weighing up options for the left side of central defence.
Another option is Fulham’s Jorge Cuenca. Benfica have been linked with the Spaniard for some time and we recently covered reports suggesting he could follow Marco Silva from Craven Cottage to the Portuguese club this summer.
Benfica revisit old interest
Portuguese newspaper Record reports Benfica are pushing ahead with plans to sign two centre-backs ahead of next season.
The idea is to bring in one experienced defender and another younger player with room to develop, and Boscagli fits neatly into the first category.
One factor working in Boscagli’s favour is that he is naturally left-footed. Benfica place significant value on that profile and have been specifically looking at left-sided central defenders during their current search.
Brighton player among centre-back options
Olivier Boscagli arrived at Brighton after building a strong reputation at PSV. There, he became a regular starter and gained plenty of European experience.
The 28-year-old is primarily a centre-back but has also spent parts of his career playing at left-back. This gives him an extra layer of versatility.
There is no suggestion yet that Benfica have made a formal move. However, Record say his name is once again being discussed internally as the Portuguese side accelerate plans to strengthen their defence.
For now, it is a case of renewed interest rather than active negotiations, but Boscagli has once again emerged as a player Benfica are considering as they look for an experienced addition at the back.
