RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesBenfica will only sell Barcelona-linked striker for an ‘irresistible offer’ – report
FC Barcelona remain focused on signing a new centre-forward before the transfer window closes, with Julian Alvarez still the club’s preferred target.
However, Atletico Madrid’s refusal to negotiate has forced the Blaugrana to continue evaluating alternative options.
One of the names linked with Barcelona is Vangelis Pavlidis , Benfica’s prolific Greek striker.
According to Portuguese outlet Record (h/t Mundo Deportivo ), however, the Lisbon club now considers him virtually untouchable and would only entertain an ‘irresistible offer’ for his transfer.
Benfica’s position has changed
The report states that Benfica currently have no intention of selling Pavlidis, and no formal bids had arrived for the striker by the end of July.
That represents a dramatic change from the situation at the end of last season. Pavlidis finished the 2025-26 campaign uncertain about his future, fearing Benfica might cash in on him after the club failed to qualify for the Champions League.
Barcelona keeping an eye on Pavlidis. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
His concerns were understandable after a difficult spell in which he scored only three goals between February and May.
Everything changed at the start of the ongoing campaign. Pavlidis produced a sensational performance in Benfica’s Europa League qualifier against Saint Gallen, scoring four goals as his team overturned the tie and secured qualification with a dominant 5-0 victory.
The display immediately restored his standing within the club. Teammates praised him after the match, while supporters once again embraced him as the team’s leading striker.
Marco Silva declares him untouchable
New Benfica manager Marco Silva, who replaced Jose Mourinho this summer, made his position crystal clear after the victory.
He described Pavlidis as one of the few players Benfica are determined to keep, highlighting not only his finishing ability but also his work rate and overall contribution to the team’s style of play.
Will Barcelona move for Pavlidis? (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
For Silva, the Greek international is one of the foundations of his project and not for sale.
Barcelona still monitoring the situation
Barcelona continue to assess multiple striker options while pursuing Alvarez, and Pavlidis remains among the names admired by the club’s sporting department.
However, Benfica’s current stance makes any potential move significantly more complicated.
Having signed Pavlidis from AZ Alkmaar for €18 million in 2024, Benfica now value him far higher after he has delivered 30 goals in each of his first two seasons with the Portuguese giants.
Unless an exceptional offer arrives, Benfica appear determined to keep their star striker for the 2026-27 campaign.
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