Rafa Silva's adventure at Beşiktaş is nearing its end: Critical details of the transfer have emerged
The departure of Beşiktaş's Portuguese star Rafa Silva has reached the final stages. As the experienced footballer prepares to return to Benfica, managed by Jose Mourinho, the terms and financial details of the transfer are becoming clear.
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The departure of Rafa Silva from Beşiktaş, which has been on the agenda for a long time, is now down to official signatures. Final negotiations are underway for the transfer of the 32-year-old player, who has not found a chance to play for the Black and Whites since November, to the Portuguese side Benfica. Rafa Silva is very close to reaching an agreement with Benfica, which is managed by head coach Jose Mourinho.
According to reports in the Portuguese press, Benfica has submitted an offer of 5 million Euros for Rafa Silva. Beşiktaş, meanwhile, has lowered its initial asking price of 15 million Euros to the 7 million Euro level. As the price gap between the two clubs has narrowed significantly, the transfer is expected to be concluded within a few days.
It was also reported that the agreement includes a performance-based bonus clause of an additional 2 million Euros. While Benfica wants to see the star player in Lisbon by the weekend, they are careful to ensure the total payment amount does not exceed 5 million Euros. Information received suggests that Rafa Silva has shaken hands with Benfica on the terms of a 2.5-year contract.
TO BE DEDUCTED FROM DEBT
Another prominent issue in this transfer between Benfica and Beşiktaş is the existing debt relationship between the two clubs. Benfica is a creditor to Beşiktaş for 25 million Euros in base fees and 5 million Euros in goal bonuses from the transfer of Orkun Kökçü. On the other hand, Benfica also has a 10 million Euro receivable in exchange for the sale of 50% of Gedson Fernandes' rights, which took place in July. This situation brings up the possibility that the transfer fee for Rafa Silva could be offset against these debts.
In light of all these developments, the Portuguese star is expected to officially leave Beşiktaş shortly and wear the Benfica jersey once again. If the transfer is finalized, both the expected amount will enter Beşiktaş's coffers and the debt relationship between the two clubs will take on a new dimension.