According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, if Everton were to sign Benfica defensive midfielder Florentino Luis this summer, it would be a major acquisition for the club, as relays the FTT.
Everton reportedly sent scouts to watch Luis play in Benfica’s recent UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge, but Benfica is currently not interested in discussing any potential moves.
It would be a difficult transfer for Everton to pull off, given that other top European clubs are also likely to be interested in Luis. Additionally, any potential move would depend on Everton avoiding relegation from the Premier League. Luis has been dubbed the “Portuguese Octopus” by football scout Jacek Kulig, and currently leads both the Portuguese top flight and Champions League in interceptions.
Speaking to GMS, O’Rourke said:
“He would be a big signing if they could get him. He’s got a huge release clause at Benfica, so I don’t think Everton will be getting anywhere near that, but Florentino Luis has had a really good season for Benfica.
“His stats are right up there with the best defensive midfielders in Europe so, if Everton were able to pull off this signing, he would be a real marquee signing because there are a number of top clubs across Europe monitoring his situation as well.”