He was the central figure in the racism scandal involving Vinicius Junior: Bayern Munich interested in a youngster worth €100 million?
Bayern Munich are reportedly keen to sign Gianluca Prestianni from Benfica Lisbon, according to Portuguese journalist Pedro Sousa.
Speaking on the programme 'Record na Hora', Sousa said the German record champions are among the clubs monitoring the 20-year-old attacking player. Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be interested, and the French club reportedly plan to approach Benfica with an offer soon.
Prestianni has played for the 38-time Portuguese champions since January 2024. His contract runs until 30 June 2029, so he is unlikely to come cheap. Sousa believes the winger could bring in up to €100 million for Benfica if he is transferred.
Despite his young age, the Argentinian is already an undisputed regular for the Lisbon club. After a modest previous year, he has registered 18 goal involvements (twelve goals and six assists) in 20 competitive appearances across all competitions this season.
Does Gianluca Prestianni fit Bayern Munich's requirements?
Prestianni's performances aren't the only reason he has attracted attention. During the Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid this past February, he is alleged to have racially abused opposing player Vinicius Junior while covering his mouth with his hand. UEFA subsequently suspended him for six matches, three of them suspended.
At the 2026 World Cup, FIFA also introduced a rule under which a player attempting to communicate with a hand over their mouth should receive a straight red card. The rule was first applied in the group match between Paraguay and Turkey, when Paraguay's Miguel Almiron received a red card following a mass confrontation and a VAR check.
Bayern are still looking for a new winger who could ease the burden on the currently injured Luis Diaz. In theory, Prestianni would fit their requirements.
Yet the German record champions are highly unlikely to pay a high eight-figure sum for him. They want a long-term, affordable alternative to the Colombian instead.
