Everton set sights on Benfica midfielder Richard Rios

Everton have reportedly expressed interest in signing Benfica midfielder Richard Rios this summer, according to reports via Sports Witness. The Colombian international, valued at around £80m, has been a standout performer in Portugal.

Who is Richard Rios?

Richard Rios, 25, joined Benfica from Palmeiras in 2023 and has since established himself as a key figure in the midfield. Known for his box-to-box energy, technical ability, and eye for goal, Rios has drawn comparisons to some of Europe's top midfielders. Last season, he helped Benfica secure a Champions League spot with consistently strong performances.

Rios has also been capped by Colombia, adding international pedigree. His physicality and versatility make him an attractive option for Premier League clubs.

Why Everton are interested

Everton's midfield has been an area of concern, with ageing options and a lack of creativity. Under manager Sean Dyche, the Toffees have relied on a solid defensive structure but have often struggled to break down opponents. Rios could provide the dynamism and goal threat from midfield that Everton have missed since the departure of players like Richarlison.

The £80m price tag, however, would represent a significant outlay for a club that has faced financial restrictions in recent years. Everton's ownership situation remains uncertain, but a move of this magnitude would signal ambition.

  • Rios would add box-to-box energy to Dyche's midfield, complementing the defensive work of Idrissa Gueye.
  • His arrival could allow Everton to shift to a more possession-based approach, increasing attacking output.
  • From an FPL perspective, a move to a side like Everton might initially limit his points ceiling, but if he becomes the midfield fulcrum, he could be a budget enabler.

How the fee compares

An £80m transfer would be a club-record fee for Everton, surpassing the £50m spent on Richarlison in 2018. In the current market, that figure aligns with fees for high-quality midfielders like Declan Rice (£105m) and Enzo Fernández (£106m), but Rios is less proven in a top league. The move would be a gamble on his potential to adapt to the Premier League's intensity.

Benfica have a history of selling key players for large fees, including Darwin Núñez (£85m to Liverpool) and Enzo Fernández. Rios could be the next big-money departure from the Estádio da Luz.

What this means for Everton's summer plans

If Everton can secure Rios, it would be a statement of intent after a season of relegation battles. However, they may need to sell players to fund the deal, with Amadou Onana among those linked with moves away. Rios' arrival could also impact the development of academy products like James Garner.

The mid-season draw against eventual league champions suggests Everton are not far off competing, but they need quality additions. Rios could be the catalyst for a mid-table push or even a European challenge.

For now, the interest is reportedly at an early stage. Everton face competition from other Premier League sides, and Benfica are likely to resist selling mid-contract. The coming weeks will clarify whether this audacious swoop becomes a reality or remains a rumour.

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