Benfica is tracking Genoa's Italian and Nigerian striker Jeff Ekhator as the club seeks an alternative to current strikers Pavlidis and Ivanovic. According to sources from Portugal, Benfica has initiated first contact with Genoa to start negotiations. Other clubs are also interested in the 19-year-old striker. Reports from England suggest a possible move to the Premier League, specifically to Crystal Palace. Mourinho has reportedly targeted the player for the January 2026 transfer window. The Italy U21 international joined Genoa in July 2024 and has a contract with the club until June 2029. He has scored 2 goals in 17 Serie A appearances this season. In January 2026, reports indicated Genoa would require a minimum of €20-25 million to sell the player. At that time, Crystal Palace was reportedly prepared to offer €18 million. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €7 million.