As the winter transfer window begins, Benfica under Jose Mourinho are reportedly looking for a new striker and a bold move could be a signing of Rio Ave striker Clayton. The 26-year-old Brazilian has been a revelation in the Portuguese league this 2025-2026 season, scoring ten goals and providing two assists in 15 appearances (1,236 minutes). His expected goals score is 6.1, demonstrating clinical finishing, while his progressive carries (1.66 per 90) highlight his dynamic threat on the pitch.
With Vangelis Pavlidis in charge at the club and 14 goals in 15 league games, Benfica need some more reliable depth as current back-ups Franjo Ivanovic (3 goals in 13 games, 528 minutes) and Henrique Araujo (0 goals in 5 games, 23 minutes) struggle to impress when called upon.
Clayton’s proven goalscoring record of 24 goals in what amounts to a season and a half at Rio Ave offers Mourinho an option who wants to score more goals when he is off the bench. His physicality and skill could complement Pavlidis perfectly, adding versatility to the challenge for titles.
If approved, this transfer could revitalize Benfica’s campaign, combining Mourinho’s tactical knowledge with Clayton’s firepower. It is unknown what the move will cost Benfica, but €10 million is the likely starting point of any negotiations.
#Benfica #solution #rush #hour #Rio #Ave