Newcastle United need to step up their efforts for Estudiantes youngster Benjamín Rollheiser as Benfica are making moves to win the race for him.
That’s according to O Jogo, who provide their own stance on the player today amid reports that Newcastle and Benfica could be set to battle for him.
The Magpies have been linked with a move for Rollheiser throughout the last few months, with it explained those in charge at St James Park are keen on him as they continue to target young talent for the future.
Throughout that Benfica have been named as potential opponents for his signature, with them and other Portuguese sides regularly securing top talent from South America early on and Rollheiser just the latest.
The door for a transfer was thrown open this week by Estudiantes vice president Juan Sebastien Veron, who admittedly publically that they needed to sell.
O Jogo now provide their stance and say that Benfica have ‘already taken steps’ to try and secure the youngster, with Eugenio López, Benfica defender Nicolas Otamendi’s agent, mediating the process.
He met last Thursday with Veron to discuss the process and attempt to get out in front as there are other interested parties, with Newcastle named specifically.
Their idea is to prepare a deal that suits all parties, with Estudiantes needing to sell and raise money. López is now expected back in Lisbon for further talks with Benfica over the player, who the Portuguese side are looking at for next season as a replacement for Goncalo Guedes and potentially Rafa and Angel Di Maria to boot.
The idea is that Rollheiser would stay at Estudiantes for another six months, although that is not concrete, and he could move in January.
Either way, if Newcastle are as keen as the numerous reports have indicated, they may want to make their move soon as Benfica appear to be stepping on the gas.
