Rumor mill: Benfica defender to Inter

This one is a new one, or at least one I have not seen at all this transfer window, but it seems to be the closest deal we have thus far in the winter mercato.

Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images

Benfica defender Lisandro Lopez could be a member of Inter Milan and be introduced by early next week, according to reports by Gazzetta dello Sport and Football Italia.

The Argentinian was named Footballer of the Year in his home country – an honor he shared with Lionel Messi – in 2013, but he has failed to feature much for the Portuguese outlet as he has made just eight appearances.

Reports suggest Inter will pay Benfica €500,000 to get Lopez on loan through the end of the season. The deal will include an option to keep him for around €9 million after the season is over.

Lopez has been with Benfica since returning from a loan spell with Getafe in 2013. In his eight appearance this year, he scored a goal in Benfica’s 2-2 draw with Portimonense in December.

It is possible that Lopez could be added defensive reinforcements for Luciano Spalletti and could be an interesting option at center back. Following a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, Spalletti suggested that “even my 80-year-old grandmother knows Inter are missing a center back.”