Gustavo Varela: Monza eye move for Benfica B’s Portugal-Cape Verde forward

Gustavo Varela, the Portugal-Cape Verde centre-forward currently with Benfica B, is being linked with a move to Serie A side Monza as the Italian club assess attacking options ahead of the new season.

The 21-year-old, who plays in Liga Portugal 2 for Benfica’s reserve team, has emerged as a potential target as Monza look to add depth in the centre-forward role. While no agreement is in place, the interest reflects growing attention around Varela’s development in Portugal’s second tier.

Varela is under contract with Benfica until 30 June 2028, a situation that is likely to strengthen the Lisbon club’s position in any negotiations. He is currently valued at around €3 million, a figure that provides an early indication of what it might take for Monza to bring him to Italy.

The forward has been gaining senior experience with Benfica B, using regular league minutes in Liga Portugal 2 to bridge the gap between youth football and top-flight level. His progress there has drawn admiring glances from abroad, with Monza now credited with a concrete interest as they test the market for emerging attacking talent from outside the traditional transfer hotspots.

Any deal would represent a significant step up in profile for Varela, moving from a B team environment into a major European league. For now, Benfica retain long-term control over his future, with his contract running for another two years beyond the upcoming season.