Real Madrid's Reinier Jesus ready to move to Benfica after tough times at Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund
Real Madrid's Reinier Jesus, a struggling attacking midfield prospect, has chosen Benfica as his final destination
Borussia Dortmund, Reinier Jesus (BVB)The promising forward struggled for two seasons with Bundesliga heavyweights and could now move to Portugal.
Reinier is expected to leave Real Madrid on loan again this summer, with reports claiming that Portuguese giants Benfica are currently at the top of the list of suitors.
At the Santiago Bernabeu, a decision on the 20-year-next old's move is imminent, with several offers already on the table.
The Brazilian playmaker spent the last two seasons with Borussia Dortmund, but he only scored one goal in 39 appearances and is now looking for a new challenge.
That is probably for the best, as Reinier's value will rise, and he will be more valuable to Real Madrid. If he can perform well as a centre-forward, there is even talk of him joining the team when Karim Benzema retires.
Who are the other suitors for Reinier Jesus?
Benfica is believed to be Reinier and his representatives' preferred option, but no agreement has yet been reached with Real Madrid.
According to reports, negotiations are still ongoing while a deal is close. That is because Benfica is eager to sign Reinier, who has twice finished in the top ten of the annual NXGN list, but they are unwilling to pay the entire loan fee of €3 million demanded by Madrid.
Benfica hopes Reinier's promise of regular game time in Portugal will work in their favour.
The South American starlet joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in January 2020 for €35 million (£30m/$39m), but he spent several months in Spain without playing competitive football.
A two-year loan to Dortmund was supposed to help his development, but opportunities proved scarce.
With that lack of action in mind, Real Madrid is eager to avoid making another mistake in the transfer market.
They are wary of agreeing to supplement any agreement that would allow the club taking Reinier on loan to release him if the switch does not go as planned.
Is Real Madrid open to letting go of Reinier Jesus?
Real Madrid is understood to rule out one potential clause as they consider the financial and sporting details of the proposals.
The Blancos continue to believe in Reinier's potential and will not include a purchase option in any loan agreement.
They plan to find a landing spot for the youngster that will allow him to make up for the lost time in Germany.
Reinier maintains constant contact with his Real Madrid agents and representatives and is prepared to cut short his summer vacation in his native Brazil if necessary.
An official announcement about his immediate future is expected in the coming days, possibly by the end of the week.