Benfica keeping close eye on Gustavo Varela

Striker Gustavo Varela, who joined Monza in the summer and has enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign in Italy, is being closely monitored by Benfica. The Portuguese club safeguarded their interests when parting ways with the 21-year-old Seixal academy graduate.

Varela moved to Monza for €2.5 million, with performance-related add-ons that could see the final fee rise. Benfica also retained a 20 per cent sell-on clause and secured a buy-back option, which, though not officially disclosed, is believed to be in the region of €10 million.

With eight goals and one assist across seven matches in Italian football—including six league goals placing him second in the top-scorer charts—the Portugal Under-21 international's displays are being tracked closely by Benfica's hierarchy. However, no decision has been taken or move made to trigger his buy-back clause in the near future.

Benfica remain fully aware of the forward's quality, as reflected in the terms of his summer transfer. However, there is also an understanding that Monza's system differs considerably from the tactical demands expected in the Eagles' first team. For now, the Lisbon giants plan to continue tracking Varela's progress before reassessing the situation at the end of the season.