Delgado transfer hits the rocks

Benfica set to lose out on Argentine ace as Lyon make bid

Benfica’s attempt to sign Argentine striker, Cesar Delgado, appears to have suffered a setback as the player himself has admitted to preferring French club Olympique Lyon over the Portuguese outfit.

France’s top club appears to be competing with the Eagles for the Cruz Azul ace. When asked during a press conference which language he would enjoy speaking more, French or Portuguese, the player chuckled and responded “French”.

The news might scupper any possible deal that Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieria is trying to strike. He is currently in Mexico City hammering out a deal with Cruz Azul’s president, Guillermo Alvarez, and vice-president, Eduardo de la Torre.

It is believed that Benfica have put in a bid of 3.5 million euros to take Delgado to Lisbon on a four and a half year deal. Lyon have not sent delegates to meet with Cruz Azul’s board, but are believed to have put in an offer of 6 million euros.

The player does not want to rule out any possibility of playing in Europe, saying it is his life-long dream.

“My agent and I will analyse the proposals with Cruz Azul and see what’s best for all parties,” said Delgado.

Related: Delgado expresses Benfica desire