Benfica: Schjelderup Resists Renewal Amid English Offer

Benfica is prepared to make a significant financial effort to extend winger Andreas Schjelderup's contract, but they face an uphill battle. A BOLA understands that the 22-year-old Norwegian international currently has no intention of renewing his contract with the Eagles, which expires in 2028. He is eyeing an offer from a Premier League club that reportedly matches Benfica's financial terms and offers the chance to compete for titles, as well as play in the UEFA Champions League – a stage Benfica will miss next season after failing to qualify.

As A BOLA previously detailed, Benfica's SAD (Sociedade Anónima Desportiva) offered the Nordic player a three-season contract extension. This would significantly boost Schjelderup's financial terms starting next season, allowing him to earn a net €18 million over five years (€3.6 million per season) until 2031. This figure far exceeds the current squad's salary cap, which hovers around €2.5 million net, excluding performance bonuses. Schjelderup was signed from Danish club Nordsjaelland for approximately €14 million in January 2023.

Benfica presented the renewal proposal and requested a response by a specific date, which has since passed without Schjelderup replying. The player's intention is not to renew, despite appreciating the effort and desire of the Benfica SAD. The Norwegian attacker is motivated not just by money, but also by the sporting challenge – the opportunity to develop in a bigger league and reach a higher level in his career.

Benfica, for their part, feel the player is currently protected with two more years on his contract and a €100 million release clause. To release Schjelderup, the Eagles are demanding a minimum of €40 million.

Andreas Schjelderup ended the season in impressive form, shining in Champions League matches, which boosted his profile. During the season, he scored 10 goals and provided seven assists in 43 appearances for the Lisbon giants. He is set to play in the 2026 World Cup with Norway, potentially gaining even greater exposure.

The prospect of losing Andreas Schjelderup this summer is becoming increasingly concrete, which would represent a significant blow to the plans of Marco Silva, the coach set to replace José Mourinho at the helm. Aware of the player's wishes and the inquiries he has received, Benfica's SAD is actively working in the market to secure new solutions. Even with Schjelderup in the squad, the plan is to sign another winger – Sidny Lopes Cabral has moved to Trabzonspor, and Bruma could also depart – but the need for two might arise. The urgency is to find a distinctive, quality player, which will naturally require a financial outlay in negotiations.

Recent reports suggested a potential move for Levante winger Carlos Álvarez, but the Spanish club's demands are high. Álvarez primarily plays on the right flank, though he can also operate on the left or behind the striker.

The Eagles, with general director Mário Branco leading market movements, have several players on their radar, but for now, the priority remains keeping Andreas Schjelderup.

This situation is expected to drag on until it's clarified, as it's possible the Norwegian will still be playing in the World Cup when Benfica's first official match takes place on July 23rd, in the Europa League qualifiers.