Wout Weghorst is being strongly linked with a move to Benfica after leaving Ajax.
The Dutch striker is currently at the World Cup with his country and warmed the bench for a 2-2 opening match draw with Japan.
He was likely checking his phone whenever he got the chance, as Dutch journalist Mounir Boualin says Weghorst is already looking at houses in Lisbon.
Weghorst to Benfica
Speaking on the Voetbalzone podcast, he said: “I hear persistent rumours that Benfica is after him.
“What I’m told is that Weghorst has even started visiting houses in Portugal. I think Benfica sees a specific role for him in the squad.”
Weghorst confirmed his Ajax departure shortly after helping the Dutch side book a Conference League place via the Eredivisie play-offs.
“Yes, I think so,” he said when asked if it was his last match.
“It has been two very good years. I am super proud that I, as a boy from the east, got to play football here.
“You think about your own future. At the moment, there is nothing concrete going on regarding Amsterdam. We’ll see. The focus is now on the World Cup.”
Weghorst then turned to his employers, critiquing their approach after a fifth-place finish.
“At least you let Ajax qualify for Europe,” he continued. “But it should be clear that the season didn’t go as it should have.
“I also hope that this serves as a lesson for everyone at the club, that you do not achieve success this way. The people responsible for this must learn from it.
“It is very important to focus on the long term, on structure, and on stability.
“Looking only at the short term is dangerous if you want to safeguard the continuity of the club.”
Weghorst would be Marco Silva’s first signing since replacing Jose Mourinho as head coach, joining on a free transfer.
Record add that Benfica also have other priorities, with Silva looking for two new centre backs, and a Harry Wilson-type player from his time at Fulham.
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