Tottenham face January hurdle as Benfica weigh Pavlidis extension
Benfica are reportedly considering a new contract for striker Vangelis Pavlidis, potentially complicating Tottenham’s interest in the Greece international ahead of January.
Spurs Web reports that Tottenham may struggle to prise the 27-year-old away during the winter window. Its account relays Portuguese reporting from O Jogo and A Bola via Sport Witness, and says Benfica are weighing an extension to a deal that currently runs until 2029.
The reported release clause is €100m (£85m), although that figure would not automatically determine the price in a negotiated transfer. Tottenham’s reported interest in Pavlidis is therefore one part of the story; Benfica’s willingness to sell is another.
Benfica want to keep their leading scorer
Pavlidis has scored 14 goals in 13 appearances this season, according to Spurs Web. The outlet also reports that Tottenham’s scouts have given the centre-forward strong reviews and that he has become the club’s leading January priority.
Benfica, meanwhile, are reportedly keen to keep him beyond the winter window. The club have increased his salary and are considering extending his contract, moves that would underline his importance while giving Benfica a stronger position if Tottenham or another interested club comes calling.
O Jogo’s reported assessment is that Tottenham could struggle to secure his signature in January. A Bola has also reported that Benfica manager Marco Silva regards keeping Pavlidis at the Estadio da Luz as a priority, and that he blocked a departure during the summer. Benfica’s reported stance echoes the contract concerns surrounding another Tottenham-linked Benfica player.
Price and January constraints
Tottenham would have to weigh the striker’s output against the size of any deal. Pavlidis has yet to play in the Premier League, and the €100m (£85m) clause signals the scale of the potential commitment, even if Benfica might negotiate below it.
Spurs Web also reports that Tottenham may be more cautious with January spending after investing heavily in the summer. At a Fan Advisory Board meeting, chief executive Vinai Venkatesham reportedly said financial regulations had constrained the club’s spending in the recent window.
Benfica’s contract plans could strengthen its hand before January, but there is no confirmation Tottenham will bid or that Pavlidis will leave. Any move will depend on whether Benfica entertain a negotiated fee and what Tottenham are prepared to commit; the reported clause is a marker, not a confirmed asking price.
