Tue Jan 21 19:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Scouts Benfica Duo Ahead of Clash

**Lisbon, Portugal** – FC Barcelona is reportedly eyeing two Benfica players, Álvaro Carreras and Florentino Luís, ahead of their Champions League clash on Tuesday. Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claims that Barcelona manager, Joan Laporta, will be closely watching the pair during the match to assess their capabilities.

Carreras, a 29-game veteran this season with three goals and three assists, is valued at €18 million. Florentino Luís, with two goals in 25 appearances, holds a €20 million valuation. Benfica could face a challenge retaining both players should Barcelona firm up their interest during the ongoing winter transfer window.

Meanwhile, former Benfica players are shining in Saudi Arabia. Al-Hilal, managed by Jorge Jesus, secured a comfortable 2-0 halftime lead against Al-Wehda, thanks to goals from Marcos Leonardo (former Benfica striker) and Malcom (former Barcelona player). Leonardo, sold to Al-Hilal for €40 million, has already scored eight goals in the Saudi Pro League this season. This victory puts Al-Hilal on course for their fifth consecutive win and maintains their league lead.

In other Benfica news, midfielder Soualiho Meité’s proposed move to Panathinaikos has fallen through due to disagreements over agent fees. However, he is expected to join PAOK, a club he previously played for. Finally, despite recent struggles, Benfica maintains faith in winger Kerem Akturkoglu, valuing his potential despite the emergence of Andreas Schjelderup as a rival for playing time.

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