CORNERFLICK
Vangelis Pavlidis has emerged as a transfer target for Tottenham and Barcelona after a strong run of form for Benfica, and the Portuguese club are not expected to let him go easily.
Interest from England and Spain
According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Tottenham and Barcelona are among the clubs monitoring the 27-year-old striker. Aston Villa, AC Milan, Roma, Juventus and Fenerbahce have also been linked with him.
Pavlidis has previously spoken about wanting to play in the Premier League, which could give English clubs an edge if he decides to leave Lisbon. Reports in Portugal say Tottenham have stepped up their interest and have sent scouts to watch him in Benfica matches.
Benfica hold a strong position
Benfica do not want to sell one of their most important players, and coach Marco Silva has told the club's hierarchy to keep him. Pavlidis is under contract until 2029 and has a €100 million release clause.
He has started the season in strong form, scoring 14 goals and providing three assists in his first 13 games for Benfica. That record has put more clubs on alert, but any winter move still looks difficult.