Manchester City are close to sending Argentine talent Claudio Echeverri to Benfica on loan, in a fresh attempt to provide the 20-year-old with regular playing time and revive his form following a turbulent spell in Europe.
“El Diablito” began his career in River Plate’s youth academy before being promoted to the first team in 2023. City moved to sign him in January 2024 on a contract running until June 2028, initially leaving him with the Argentine club to continue his development.
According to the latest reports, Benfica have entered advanced negotiations to secure Echeverri on loan until the end of the 2026–2027 season, after the player also attracted interest from Real Betis and Sheffield United during the final days of the transfer window.
The agreement is expected to include an option for Benfica to buy the player permanently, with the valuation yet to be disclosed. This move to Portugal would mark his fourth loan stint since joining Manchester City ownership, following spells at River Plate, Bayer Leverkusen, and Girona.
Echeverri has had limited opportunities with the English side, featuring in just 3 matches and scoring a single goal—a direct free-kick against Al Ain in the FIFA Club World Cup—after making his debut in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace in May 2025.
During his first loan spell, he played 43 matches for River Plate in 2024, scoring 4 goals. He then moved to Bayer Leverkusen, where he made just 11 appearances and provided one assist without scoring, prompting the German club to terminate the loan early due to a lack of minutes.
The young Argentine international subsequently joined Girona in January 2026, making 17 La Liga appearances while recording a goal and an assist. However, the stint ended in Girona’s relegation, leaving him seeking stability at Benfica to restore his momentum and prove the talent that prompted City’s investment.
