Benfica Rejects Multi-Million Euro Bid for Vangelis Pavlidis

Benfica has rejected a substantial offer from Turkish club Fenerbahçe for striker Vangelis Pavlidis, A BOLA has confirmed. The Istanbul-based club tabled an initial bid of €40 million, with potential bonuses that could have seen the deal rise to €50 million, but the Eagles' board declined the proposal.

Head coach Marco Silva views the Greek international forward as a pivotal player for the upcoming season. Despite the attractive financial figures offered by Fenerbahçe, Benfica prioritized sporting objectives over financial gain, opting to keep their key asset.

Pavlidis, 27, joined Benfica in the summer of 2025 from Dutch side AZ Alkmaar for €18 million. Since his arrival, the prolific attacker has featured in 112 matches, starting 96 of them, scoring 64 goals and providing 18 assists.

Last Thursday, Pavlidis once again showcased his scoring prowess, netting four goals – a career first – in Benfica's dominant 5-0 victory over Swiss club St. Gallen in the second leg of the Europa League's second qualifying round. This stellar performance likely solidified Fenerbahçe's interest, with reports from Turkey on Tuesday indicating a meeting in Madrid between the club and the player's agent to discuss contract terms. However, Benfica's firm stance, considering Pavlidis essential for their 2026/26 ambitions, ultimately thwarted the move.

Vangelis Pavlidis is under contract with Benfica until 2029 and is protected by a hefty €100 million release clause.