Benfica target Jan Vertonghen

Benfica are looking to sign former Tottenham Hotspur centreback Jan Vertonghen on a free transfer this summer.

In a summer that is sure to be one of considerable investment for Benfica as they look to regain the Portuguese Primeira Liga title and compete on the European stage, one position which they are keen on strengthening is at the back in central defence, looking for a strong partner for Portuguese international Ruben Dias.

One of the players they have identified as a top priority is the Belgian international Vertonghen, who played 23 Premier League games for Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham last campaign before departing at the end of his contract.

It means that Benfica will be able to sign the 33-year old for no fee at all, though he will come with considerable wage demands.

Vertonghen has previously been linked with a move to Paulo Fonseca’s Roma, who are looking for alternatives to Chris Smalling, who spent a season on loan at the Italian club last campaign.

Benfica are also closing in on bringing Edinson Cavani to the club on a free transfer, the Uruguayan currently in advanced negotiations with Benfica, who are pulling out all the stops to get the 33-year old striker, while they are also set to complete the signing of Brazilian international Everton Cebolinha.