Benfica has attempted to acquire Thiago Almada by offering 26 million euros and a 40% resale percentage, but this offer was rejected by John Textor and Botafogo. Almada prioritizes a move to Benfica, influenced by positive feedback from Nicolas Otamendi and Nemanja Matic.

Benfica has shown interest in signing Thiago Almada and initially submitted an offer of 35 million EUR, which was rejected by Botafogo and John Textor. Benfica plans to return with a new offer of approximately 40 million EUR. Thiago Almada returned to Botafogo after a loan to Olympique Lyonnais and is under contract until 2029. He moved to Botafogo from Atlanta United for around 20 million EUR in 2024, but Botafogo has yet to pay Atlanta United, leading to a dispute filed with FIFA.

Mundo Deportivo reports on Benfica's interest in acquiring Thiago Almada as a replacement for Ángel Di María.

According to Marca, there is a potential transfer of Thiago Almada from Lyon, driven by financial challenges and interest from Benfica. The Argentine midfielder, who transferred to Lyon from Botafogo, is contemplating a move due to the risk of Lyon's relegation and their financial difficulties. Benfica has expressed interest in Almada, appreciating the Argentine influence at their club. Lyon has set a price of around 40 million euros for Almada. Discussions are currently taking place between Benfica and Lyon, with uncertainty surrounding Benfica's willingness to meet the financial demands. Almada has previously been linked to Atlético de Madrid and is also keen on a move to the Premier League, where two clubs are reportedly interested, though they remain unnamed.

Thiago Almada, after completing his loan, was in advanced negotiations with Benfica. John Textor, however, clarified in the Portuguese press that Olympique Lyonnais does not intend to sell Almada despite Benfica's interest and negotiations. Textor emphasized the good relations with Benfica and mentioned that they were not looking to sell Almada, aiming to make him their key attacking midfielder. The decision also depends on the DNCG's financial ruling.

Benfica is actively pursuing Thiago Almada to fill the creative winger role left by Angel Di Maria's imminent departure to Rosario Central. The club has had a long-standing interest in Almada and is keen to bring him on board for the next season. John Textor, the owner of Olympique Lyonnais, has set a price of at least 40 million euros for the transfer, which Benfica considers too high. As a result, Benfica is attempting to negotiate a lower price, potentially involving a player exchange with Gianluca Prestianni to reduce the operation's cost. The negotiations are at an advanced stage, and Benfica remains optimistic, particularly because Almada is interested in joining them, inspired by Enzo Fernandez's success at the club. Benfica aims to finalize the deal quickly. Almada, who joined Olympique Lyonnais after a period at Botafogo and has established himself as an indispensable player with 20 appearances, 2 goals, and 5 assists, is eager to make the move as his future at Lyon appears uncertain.