UD Almería cannot keep Sergio Arribas; Benfica has tabled an offer exceeding €20 million.

The 22‑year‑old Spanish midfielder has become the Portuguese side’s top target to strengthen its squad for the 2026‑27 season. According to the Portuguese daily A Bola, the Lisbon club is ready to pay a sum that tops €20 M€, a figure that forces UD Almería to look for alternative financing.

Why does Benfica want Arribas?

Benfica needs a creative midfielder who blends vision with attacking drive. Arribas, who featured in 31 Segunda División matches last season, scored 5 goals and provided 7 assists, fits the profile perfectly. Head coach José Mourinho has said the player would slot seamlessly into the 4‑3‑3 system the club is installing.

What does the sale mean for UD Almería?

UD Almería missed promotion to La Liga in the final round, finishing sixth with 68 points. Without that financial boost, the departure of Arribas becomes almost unavoidable. Moreover, Real Madrid holds a 50 % future sell‑on clause from the 2024 transfer that sent the player to Almería, potentially cutting the net profit the club would receive.

What steps will the club take?

Sporting director José María Jiménez confirmed that the club is negotiating the sale while scouting replacements to fill the gap. "We need to balance the books and reinforce the squad to chase promotion again," he said at a press conference on 3 July 2026. Talks are ongoing with SmartBank teams and possibly a Premier League side interested in young talent at a reasonable price.

What lies ahead for Arribas?

If the deal goes through, Arribas will sign a five‑year contract with Benfica, with a release clause set at €80 M. The player has expressed excitement about playing in the Primeira Liga and European competitions. "It’s a dream come true," he told Marca in an exclusive interview on 2 July.

The summer looks decisive for UD Almería. Losing Arribas could trigger a major restructuring, as the club aims to return to the promotion race next season.