Benfica have made a significant statement in the summer transfer window by signing Colombian midfielder Richard Rios from Palmeiras for a reported fee of €27 million. The move underlines Benfica’s ambition to remain competitive not only in the Primeira Liga but also in Europe, as they look to build on recent domestic success and continue to challenge in the UEFA Champions League.
Richard Rios, 24, has emerged as one of the standout midfielders in South American football over the past two seasons. At Palmeiras, he developed a reputation for being a dynamic, all-action player with the versatility to operate as a deep-lying playmaker or a box-to-box presence. His technical quality, tenacity, and tactical intelligence have caught the eye of European scouts for some time, and now Benfica have won the race for his signature.
The €27 million fee is one of the highest Benfica have paid for a player in recent years, reflecting both Rios’ potential and the Portuguese club’s determination to secure a player they believe can make an immediate impact. Benfica have a long history of developing and selling South American talent for significant profits — players like Angel Di Maria, David Luiz, and Enzo Fernández have all used the Lisbon-based club as a springboard to Europe’s elite leagues. Rios will be hoping to follow a similar path, but first, he will be tasked with helping Benfica retain their domestic crown and make a deep run in European competition.
For Palmeiras, the sale represents another smart piece of business, continuing a tradition of nurturing top talent and selling at the right time. The Brazilian side will undoubtedly feel Rios’ absence in midfield, but the financial windfall gives them flexibility to strengthen other areas and invest in their academy, which has produced a steady stream of first-team players in recent years.
Benfica manager Roger Schmidt will see Rios as a crucial addition to his squad. Last season, Benfica dominated possession in most domestic fixtures but occasionally lacked steel and dynamism in midfield against stronger European sides. Rios’ arrival should help address that gap. Known for his stamina and ability to win duels, he can break up play effectively while also contributing to build-up phases with sharp passing and intelligent positioning.
Another important aspect of Rios’ game is his leadership. Despite his relatively young age, he has been described by coaches as a natural motivator on the pitch. Benfica’s midfield has plenty of technical talent, but Rios’ combative edge could bring the balance needed to compete with more physical teams, especially in the Champions League where margins are tight.
Off the pitch, the signing also fits Benfica’s wider recruitment strategy. The club has consistently targeted emerging South American players, knowing that they can adapt to Portuguese football and attract big transfer fees down the line. If Rios continues his trajectory, Benfica could eventually command a much larger fee for him in the future, adding to the club’s sustainable model of player trading.
The timing of the transfer is also significant. With pre-season already underway, Rios will have a full summer to integrate into the squad, adapt to Schmidt’s tactical demands, and settle into life in Lisbon. That should help him hit the ground running when the Primeira Liga kicks off in August. Fans will be eager to see how quickly he forms partnerships with established midfielders like Florentino Luís and João Neves, both of whom could benefit from Rios’ presence.
For Rios himself, the move is a big step in his career. Joining a club with Benfica’s history and ambitions gives him a bigger stage to showcase his abilities and stake a claim for regular involvement with the Colombian national team. With Copa America and World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, playing in Europe’s top competitions can only boost his chances of becoming a key figure for Colombia.
Benfica’s supporters will be hopeful that Rios can replicate the success of other South Americans who have thrived at the Estádio da Luz. The club has enjoyed a strong record of integrating players from Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, often turning them into household names across Europe.
Ultimately, the signing of Richard Rios represents more than just another transfer. It is a signal of Benfica’s intent to keep pushing forward, both domestically and on the continent. With competition fierce in Portugal, especially from rivals Porto and Sporting CP, securing top talent is vital for Benfica to maintain their edge.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Richard Rios to see if he can deliver on the promise that persuaded Benfica to invest €27 million in his talent. If he can replicate his Palmeiras form in Lisbon, he could be the latest South American star to make Benfica fans
dream big once again.
