Deal Done: Enzo Barrenechea Joins Benfica on Loan from Aston Villa with €15M Option to Buy
The Argentine midfielder signs until 2030, with the purchase clause becoming mandatory under certain conditions.
Benfica have officially secured the signing of Enzo Barrenechea from Aston Villa in a move that strengthens their midfield options for the 2025/26 season. The 23-year-old Argentine midfielder arrives in Lisbon on loan, but with a €15 million purchase option that may become mandatory depending on performance objectives.
The agreement includes a 30% capital gains clause in favor of Aston Villa on any future transfer, ensuring the English club remains linked to the player’s future value.
Barrenechea Set for Medical and Signs Long-Term Deal
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the deal is finalized and Enzo Barrenechea will undergo medical tests this Wednesday (July 16) in Lisbon. He is expected to sign a contract valid until June 2030.
🚨🦅 Enzo Barrenechea to Benfica, here we go! Deal in place for €15m, loan with obligation to buy clause under certain conditions from Aston Villa.
Medical tests booked and contract until June 2030 for the midfielder. 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/R1mJnSrFgn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2025
A Direct Replacement for Florentino Luís?
This transfer gains even more relevance as Benfica faces the possible departure of Florentino Luís, who has attracted interest from both Serie A and Premier League clubs. In addition, Manu Silva, signed from Vitória SC last season, is injured and will miss the start of the campaign.
That opens the door for Barrenechea to slot directly into Bruno Lage’s midfield rotation as a holding midfielder, bringing a blend of aggression, work rate, and defensive balance.
Competition Beat: Porto, Valencia & Forest Miss Out
Reports indicate that Valencia, where Barrenechea played last season, Nottingham Forest, and even rivals FC Porto showed strong interest. However, Benfica’s project and guaranteed playing time reportedly played a big part in the decision.
The Argentine had a solid season at Valencia in 2024/25, featuring in 33 matches, scoring one goal, and contributing two assists across all competitions.
Barrenechea’s Journey: From Newell’s to the Estádio da Luz
- Youth Academy: Newell’s Old Boys (Argentina)
- European Move: FC Sion (Switzerland)
- Breakthrough: Juventus U23 → Frosinone (loan) → Aston Villa
- 2024/25 Season: Loaned to Valencia — 2,258 minutes, 6 yellow cards
Now at Benfica, Barrenechea is aiming to establish himself at one of the biggest clubs in Portugal and prove his worth on the European stage, especially with Champions League football on the horizon.
