Benfica’s Rodriguez ready to switch allegiances to FC Porto

Uruguayan admits a move north is a possibility

Cristian Rodriguez has come out and confessed that if he does not sign a permanent deal with Benfica then he would seriously consider signing for bitter rivals FC Porto.

The Uruguayan winger, who joined the Eagles on loan from Paris Saint-Germain at the beginning of the season, has admitted that Porto would be viable option for him should a deal not be struck with the Lisbon club.

After arriving from a post-season tour of Africa, the 22-year-old is still in the dark over his future, but conceded that if a move to the north of Portugal was the right thing for his career, then he would not hesitate in signing a contract.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen. I would like to stay with Benfica, but I am a professional and if I have to leave, then I will leave.”

“I would be happy if FC Porto signed me. They too are a big club. These are things that exist in football. I am waiting for the situation to be resolved as quickly as possible,” said the Uruguayan international.

Rodriguez’s comments will certainly alert the three time Portuguese champions as rumours have circulated in the past that the Dragons have taken a liking to the player after several impressive performances, and snatching him from Benfica would be an added bonus.

It remains to be seen if Benfica are prepared to pay the estimated 7m euro buyout clause that PSG have slapped on the player’s head. Benfica fans have embraced the attacking midfielder since his arrival last August as one of the few positive aspects of a disappointing season.

The Eagles’ new director of football Rui Costa has admitted that the club were very interested in signing Rodriguez, but perhaps the fact that the new coach is yet to be named has delayed the negotiation process.


Related: Cristian Rodriguez PortuGOAL profile