Richard Ríos could leave Benfica before the transfer window closes, with English club Bournemouth reportedly preparing a bid for the Colombian midfielder in the coming days, according to the Colombian newspaper Metro.
Benfica's board is open to selling the 26-year-old, who joined the Lisbon club a year ago for 27 million euros. The Portuguese giants would only let him go for a fee of at least 40 million euros.
Why Benfica may sell
The imminent arrival of Portugal international João Palhinha, combined with Benfica's already crowded midfield, has left Ríos with limited opportunities to secure a starting place. Head coach Marco Silva wants to keep the Colombian, but he is currently not among the first names on the team sheet, and the club is aware he could depart with two weeks left before the transfer window shuts.
Spanish side Getafe have also been linked with Ríos, but that move is considered less likely, since Getafe's financial capacity falls well short of Benfica's asking price.
Bournemouth's growing Benfica ties
Bournemouth, who already signed defender António Silva from Benfica this off-season for 25 million euros, are seen as strong candidates to land Ríos as well. The Colombian scored eight goals and provided six assists in 45 official appearances for Benfica last season.
Ríos's agents are currently in Portugal to discuss his future, with an eventual transfer under consideration.
Italian interest without a formal offer
Beyond Bournemouth and Getafe, Italian clubs Roma and Napoli have also shown interest in Ríos. However, according to Correio da Manhã, neither Italian club has yet submitted a proposal to Benfica's board, led by Rui Costa.
A reduced role this season
Ríos was almost always a starter for Benfica last season, but under Marco Silva in the 2026/2027 campaign he has mostly featured as a substitute. He has started just once, in a 1-1 draw against Hearts in the Europa League.
His late arrival for pre-season training, after representing Colombia at the World Cup, delayed his integration into Marco Silva's squad.
