🚨 ARENA ALERT! Richard RÃos Set to Join Al-Ittihad on Loan from Benfica
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Al-Ittihad have reached an agreement to sign Richard RÃos on loan from Benfica, with the Colombian midfielder heading for a new chapter in Saudi Arabian football.
The deal represents a significant development for the 26-year-old, who joined Benfica from Palmeiras in 2025 on a contract running until 2030. The agreement between Benfica and Al-Ittihad is reported to be for a loan, with multiple reports indicating that no option to buy is included in the arrangement.
Al-Ittihad are expected to pay a loan fee reported at around €3 million, while also taking responsibility for the midfielder's salary during his spell with the Saudi club.
The move is now subject to the remaining formalities before it can be officially completed.
A New Chapter for Richard RÃos
RÃos arrived at Benfica with significant expectations following his performances for Palmeiras and Colombia. Benfica invested heavily in the midfielder, signing him for €27 million and tying him to a long-term contract until 2030.
However, his time in Lisbon has not developed exactly as expected.
With opportunities becoming more limited, a temporary move away from Benfica offers RÃos the chance to secure a fresh start and potentially play a more prominent role.
For Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, the Colombian international represents an experienced addition to their midfield as the club continues strengthening its squad.
The Saudi Pro League has attracted an increasing number of established international players in recent years, and the arrival of RÃos would add another player with experience at both club and international level.
Benfica Still Hold the Player's Future
One particularly important detail of the agreement is the reported absence of a purchase option.
That means Richard RÃos remains a Benfica player, with his long-term contract continuing after the loan spell ends.
For Benfica, the arrangement provides an opportunity to temporarily reduce the financial burden associated with the midfielder while keeping control over his future.
For RÃos, the loan creates a chance to demonstrate his qualities in a different environment and potentially return to Lisbon with renewed momentum.
The deal could therefore benefit all parties, although its ultimate success will depend on how quickly the Colombian adapts to his new surroundings.
What RÃos Could Bring to Al-Ittihad
RÃos is known for his energy and ability to contribute in midfield, and Al-Ittihad will hope his experience can provide another dimension to their squad.
Moving from Portuguese football to Saudi Arabia will bring a new tactical and cultural challenge, but the Colombian has already experienced several different stages in his career.
His journey from South American football to Europe and now potentially to the Saudi Pro League demonstrates how quickly his career has evolved.
Al-Ittihad will be hoping this is not simply a high-profile arrival but a signing capable of making a meaningful contribution on the pitch.
The pressure will also be on RÃos to make the most of the opportunity.
A successful loan spell could strengthen his position when he eventually returns to Benfica, while also opening further possibilities for his future.
Final Formalities Remain
Although the clubs have reportedly reached an agreement, the transfer still requires the remaining formalities before an official announcement can be expected.
That distinction remains important.
The deal should therefore be treated as agreed between the clubs but not yet officially confirmed by all parties.
If completed, Richard RÃos will leave Benfica temporarily after just over a year and begin a new challenge with Al-Ittihad.
For Benfica, it is a chance to retain control of a player they invested heavily in while allowing him to pursue regular opportunities elsewhere.
For Al-Ittihad, it could be another important midfield addition as they continue building their squad.
And for Richard RÃos, the next destination appears to be clear: Saudi Arabia is calling, and Al-Ittihad are waiting.
Comments (1)
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9/2/2026 at 04:14 AM
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