However, for Benfica to stand any chance of signing the 24-year-old, they have been told they must pay more than 18m euros. As per reports, Gremio are holding out for at least 25-30m euros as they believe that would be a more accurate valuation of their prized asset.
Jorge Jesus knows Everton well enough and has identified the Brazilian as a priority to sort Benfica’s attack. His appointment as manager could give Benfica a strong chance in the running for the 24-year-old.
As per Portuguese media, Jorge Jesus has now urged Benfica president Luís Filipe Vieira to try and close the deal quickly as there are other clubs interested in the player too. Gremio will have no problem selling to the highest bidder.
Since last summer, the likes of Napoli and Premier League duo Arsenal and Everton also registered interest in the player. But Napoli signing Victor Osimhen recently means they are more or less out of that running. Arsenal also looked to have pulled out of the race over recent time.
This means Benfica will have to battle it out with Everton FC if they hope to tempt Cebolinha to move to Portugal.
On the path of Gremio, it is quite understandable why they are holding out for around 25-30m euros at least. Considering they paid 20m to sign Pedrinho from Corinthians, they expect that Everton should cost way more as he is a more rounded and experienced player who already stars for the Brazil national team.
Benfica are now expected to step up their offer and submit an improved one to Gremio in the coming days.
