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SportsAl-Ittihad to Sign Benfica Midfielder Barreiro for €15 Million
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Saudi club Al-Ittihad is close to signing Luxembourg international midfielder Leonardo Barreiro from Benfica for a €15 million fee with flexible payment terms, according to Saudi Sports TV. The 26-year-old, considered one of Luxembourg's top players, began his career at Racing Union before moving to Mainz's youth system in 2016. He made 141 Bundesliga appearances for Mainz, scoring 11 goals, before joining Benfica on a free transfer in 2024. At Benfica, he made 58 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 6 assists, winning the league title and playing in the Champions League and Club World Cup. Barreiro has 73 caps for Luxembourg since 2018, scoring 2 goals. The transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with a four-year contract awaiting him.
Source report
Source: Saudi Sports TV / arriyadiyah
Saudi Sports TV has reported that Al-Ittihad Club is nearing the signing of Luxembourg midfielder Leonardo Barreiro from Benfica during the current summer transfer window.
According to sources, the Jeddah-based club's management is in advanced negotiations with Benfica over a deal worth €15 million, with flexible payment terms. The transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming days.
Once completed, the Luxembourg international is set to sign a four-year contract with Al-Ittihad.
Player Profile
- Age: 26
- Position: Defensive midfielder
- National team: Luxembourg (73 caps, 2 goals since 2018)
Career Background
- Began his career at the Racing Union academy
- Moved to Mainz's youth setup in 2016
- Promoted to Mainz's first team in 2019
- Made 141 Bundesliga appearances over five seasons, scoring 11 goals
- Transferred to Benfica as a free agent in summer 2024
- Recorded 58 appearances across all competitions for Benfica, with 6 goals and 6 assists
- Won the league title with Benfica
- Represented the club in the UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup
Playing Style
Barreiro is described as a technically well-rounded defensive midfielder, known for steady ball control and rhythm management. His strengths include notable dribbling ability, chance creation, abundant stamina, and defensive aggression. Long-range passing and physical duels are noted as areas for improvement.
Source
虎扑 - 足球Regional
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Al-Ittihad to Sign Luxembourg Midfielder Leonardo Barreiro from Benfica for €15 Million