Portuguese Giants Open Talks With Real Madrid To Sign 26-Year-Old Star: Reports

In what could be one of the more unexpected yet intriguing developments of the summer transfer window, Portuguese heavyweights Benfica have reportedly opened negotiations with Real Madrid to sign 26-year-old attacking midfielder Brahim Diaz.

Diaz, who returned to Real Madrid last season after a successful loan stint at AC Milan, has been a useful asset for the Spanish giants. Despite not being a regular starter under Carlo Ancelotti last season, he made critical contributions off the bench and in select starting roles. But with the arrival of Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid’s new manager, the future of many squad players—Diaz included—has come under evaluation.

Benfica, known for their sharp transfer strategies and eye for talent, see an opportunity in Brahim Diaz. The Portuguese club is reportedly in direct talks with Real Madrid’s board to assess the feasibility of a deal. Their sporting director has been in contact with Diaz’s representatives over the past few days, hoping to lure him with the promise of more consistent playing time and a central role in their attacking plans.

While Real Madrid are not actively pushing for Diaz’s exit, they are open to offers that align with their financial and sporting ambitions. The club is currently managing a congested midfield and attacking setup, especially following the recent arrivals of Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappé, and Endrick. Given this crowd, Brahim’s chances of regular first-team minutes could diminish further.

Benfica believes they can offer Diaz a platform to become a key figure, both domestically and in Europe. With Champions League football secured and a squad brimming with youth and attacking flair, the Portuguese side could be an ideal fit for Diaz’s creative talents.

Reports suggest that Benfica are exploring both a loan deal with an option to buy, and a straight permanent transfer, depending on Real Madrid’s stance. Financially, the Portuguese club is willing to meet a fee in the region of €20–25 million, which is viewed as reasonable given Diaz’s age, experience, and potential resale value.

Real Madrid are likely to hold firm on a valuation closer to €30 million, especially considering Diaz’s marketability and the club’s reluctance to let talented players go cheaply. However, the final decision may come down to the player’s personal desire and playing-time expectations under Xabi Alonso.

Diaz himself has not publicly commented on the links but is believed to be open to a move if it guarantees regular football and involvement in a meaningful project. The allure of being a centerpiece in a Champions League squad like Benfica’s is understandably attractive.

Should a deal go through, it would mark a return to the Iberian Peninsula for Diaz, who began his youth career in Spain before moving to Manchester City. A move to Portugal could revitalize his career trajectory and place him under the spotlight in both Liga Portugal and Europe.

With weeks left in the summer transfer window, this story is likely to gather pace. Real Madrid, Benfica, and Brahim Diaz are all weighing their options carefully—but if an agreement is reached, it could turn out to be a very smart piece of business for all parties involved.