Benfica Lisbon, one of Portugal’s giants, as well as one of Europe’s most decorated clubs, was close to acquiring a player from FCSB, the reigning champion.
Agent Giovanni Becali revealed this weekend that owner Gigi Becali recently turned down a massive offer for midfielder Tavi Popescu.
Benfica Lisbon wanted to buy the 22-year-old Romanian player, who has returned to the first team of the "red and blues" after a long absence due to a serious injury.
The agent stated that Benfica's offer was genuine, but negotiations did not materialize after the landowner from Pipera asked for around 20-30 million:
"I don't think Tavi Popescu has offers now. Gigi Becali is asking for 7-8 million euros, but Tavi Popescu has returned after the injury, and we are also waiting for his full recovery. It's very hard to believe he could have an offer now. He hasn't played much. We'll see if he will participate in the European Championship and play. But for now, nothing. Let's be serious. Tavi Popescu could have been worth more. We had an offer of 8-9 million euros from Benfica.
But at that time, Gigi Becali was asking for 20-30 million euros. Benfica's offer is real. I asked my scout too, but he didn't react then. It was an offer of 8-9 million euros.
Plus some percentages. He was on the rise, George had nicknamed him, as you know. I believed it then too. But slowly, the years passed, he got injured, and for now, nothing. He needs to realize that time is passing, and he remains just hope.
It all depends on him. If he realizes he can come back, he can become a footballer with a very good financial situation," said Giovanni Becali, according to the daily Fanatik.
Popescu, plagued by injuries, has played in only 21 games this season, scoring 2 goals and providing a decisive assist. He is valued at 1.4 million euros. Additionally, the player has earned seven caps for the Romanian national team, hoping to remain in coach Mircea Lucescu's plans for the World Cup 2026.
D.A.