Benfica Closes Door on Union for Leandro Paredes

Benfica has closed the door on Union's attempts to acquire midfielder Leandro Barreiro, insisting on keeping the player in their squad for the time being.

According to the Portuguese newspaper "Glorioso", Benfica's management considers Barreiro to be an important element within the team's setup, and they are not thinking of allowing his departure during the current transfer market.

Union officials have tried to open negotiation channels with the Portuguese club, seeking the possibility of signing the midfielder, but their efforts have not been welcomed by Benfica.

The Portuguese club is steadfast in its refusal to consider selling Barreiro, as the coaching staff relies on him and needs his services to strengthen their midfield options.

Benfica's stance puts the Union in a new predicament in their attempts to bolster the midfield, especially with the summer transfer window closing soon.

Al-Ittihad's management is considering its options in the remaining days of the transfer window, either by making another attempt to persuade Benfica to change its stance or by looking towards another player.

Ittihad is targeting to bolster its squad with several new players during the current period, but Benfica's firm stance on Barreiro may force the club to alter its strategy and search for a suitable alternative.