PSG and Benfica close to sealing transfer of Portugal’s Euro Best Young Player

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Benfica are reportedly nearing a deal that will see midfielder Renato Sanches return to his former club, Benfica, Soccernet.football reports.

According to Portuguese sports daily Record as per Paristeam, Sanches has given his approval for the transfer, which is expected to be a one-year loan with PSG covering the player’s entire salary.

Sanches, who joined PSG in 2022, has struggled with injuries throughout his career. After a challenging season with limited appearances for PSG, he spent the previous campaign on loan at AS Roma, where he also faced injury setbacks.

Now back in Paris, Sanches has been training with PSG’s new reserve team and is poised for a move back to Portugal.

The 26-year-old midfielder first made headlines in 2016 as one of Portuguese football’s brightest prospects.

He shone for Benfica and played a key role in Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph, earning the tournament’s Best Young Player award. This success led to a transfer to Bayern Munich, where his progress was hampered by injuries.

Sanches found a resurgence in form at Lille, contributing to their Ligue 1 title win in the 2020-2021 season. However, his time at PSG has been marred by further injuries, limiting his impact on the team.

Reports suggest that Sanches’ return to Benfica could be linked to PSG’s interest in Benfica’s Joao Neves, although the exact terms of the deal remain unclear.

The move could be finalized as soon as this weekend, with both clubs reportedly close to an agreement.