Portuguese giants SL Benfica have announced the signing of Atletico winger Jose Antonio Reyes on a season long loan. The former Arsenal player, deemed surplus to requirements after just one season at Vicente Calderon, becomes Benfica’s fourth summer signing after Pablo Aimar, Carlos Martins and Javier Balboa. Benfica have paid €2.65 million for 25% of Reyes’ playing rights, with an option to buy the remaining 3/4th when the loan spell ends.
Soccer transfers and rumours
Xabi and Arsenal- the rumours continue
According to latest rumours, Arsenal are interested in signing Xabi Alonso, but want Liverpool to reduce the price tag for the Spanish midfielder. With Hleb, Gilberto and Flamini having departed Ashburton Grove for Barcelona, Panathinaikos and Milan respectively, Arsene Wenger is looking for a midfielder to support Cesc Fabregas, and Alonso seems to fit the bill properly. The stumbling block seems to be the transfer fee- Liverpool value Alonso at 18 million pounds ( the fee they are expected to pay for Gareth Barry), while Arsenal are looking at something in the 10-12 million pound range.
Souleymane Youla joins Eskisehirspor on loan
Guinea striker Souleymane Youla will make a return to Turkey in the coming season after agreeing to join newly promoted Eskisehirspor on a season long loan. The forward moved to Lille from Besiktas in 2006 for $2m, but struggled to cement a first team place. He has also played for Lokeren and Anderlecht in Belgium, and Genclerbirligi and Metz in France.