SL Benfica are closing in on the signing of highly-rated striker Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise, fending off late interest from Wolves and several other clubs.
The 21-year-old Croatian forward is set to undergo a medical in Lisbon on Wednesday after Union SG agreed a deal with the Portuguese giants worth up to €25 million. A verbal agreement on personal terms has already been reached, with Ivanovic expected to sign a contract running until at least 2028.
Softfootball earlier reported that Benfica have reached a verbal agreement to sign the striker, but for a moment it seemed the transfer was thrown off the rails following Wolves interest.
However, according to German journalist Florian Plettenberg via his official X account, Benfica remain in pole position despite attempts from other clubs to hijack the deal.
He explained:
“Talks between Union Saint-Gilloise and SL Benfica over a permanent deal for 21 y/o striker Franjo Ivanovic are in full swing.
“Several teams are trying to hijack the deal, but SL Benfica are still in pole position.
“The deal is valued at up to €25 million. A verbal agreement until at least 2028 is already in place.”
Wolves, who have seen several key players leave Molineux this summer, had hoped to bring Ivanovic to the Premier League to bolster their attacking options. Wolves have added Fer Lopez, Jhon Arias, and Jorgen Strand Larsen to the squad but missed out on defender Marc Pubill, who joined Atletico Madrid.
Ivanovic was identified as a priority forward target, and their interest reportedly caused the striker to briefly reconsider his options due to the financial appeal of a Premier League move.
However, Belgian reporter Sacha Tavolieri confirmed on Tuesday that Benfica have now reached full agreement with Union SG. Ivanovic is expected to fly to Portugal imminently to finalize the move.
The Croatian enjoyed a stellar season with Union SG, scoring 16 goals and providing six assists to help the club win the Belgian Pro League title. Benfica have moved quickly to wrap up the deal, keen to avoid another twist in the transfer saga as Wolves continued to press.
Once the medical is completed, Ivanovic will be officially unveiled as a Benfica player and begin a new chapter in the Portuguese capital.
