Internacional is strategically pursuing new recruits to strengthen its roster, particularly focusing on the right-back position following the serious knee injury sustained by Bruno Gomes. With pressing needs for effective player replacements, the Brazilian club has turned its attention to Alan Benítez, the Paraguayan defender currently playing for Cerro Porteo.
The negotiations for Benitez are underway, with Internacional's sports director, D’Alessandro, actively engaged in discussions with Cerro Porteo's president, Juan José Zapag. Every effort is being made to secure the approval necessary to finalize this deal, which has been characterized as pivotal by industry insiders.
Although Internacional has identified Benitez as their primary target, the club recognizes the significance he holds for Cerro Porteo. The response from the Paraguayan club's head coach, Diego Martínez, indicated their unwillingness to release Benitez at this time. "There were some possibilities. ... For me, all players are very important. Nobody from our group is going to leave the club," he stated emphatically after Cerro Porteo's recent Copa Libertadores victory against Monagas from Venezuela.
Benitez, aged 31, is currently enjoying his second spell with Cerro Porteo, where he has established himself as a competent option on the field. His first tenure lasted from 2021 to 2022, and during the current season, he has already made five appearances. He previously showcased his talent with Benfica and Minnesota United, indicating the breadth of his competitive experience.
Internacional has been amending its tactical approach following unforeseen player injuries. With Bruno Gomes' absence, the right-back duties have fallen to Braian Aguirre, who arrived from Lanús and has just begun to gain stability. Concurrently, Nathan, another option for the right-back position, is on loan from Santos through June 2025.
Given the tight timeframe until the close of the international transfer window, which is set for the end of the day today, February 28, negotiations for Benitez are urgent. The Internacional management has other potential targets, including William from Cruzeiro, but those discussions did not yield satisfactory results.
The recruiting strategy extends beyond the defensive line, with the club also targeting new midfielders to reinforce its roster. They are experiencing some setbacks, losing two key players: Rômulo, who transferred to Tigres, and Thiago Maia, who is expected to return to Santos. To address these issues, Internacional is actively engaging with potential midfield recruits, including Diego Rosa and Elián Irala.
Diego Rosa has recently left Lommel SK, where he played on loan, and is now back in Brazil, primed for new opportunities. Meanwhile, negotiations for Irala are progressing positively after Internacional submitted a renewed proposal to San Lorenzo. The urgency surrounding these discussions is clear, with the team needing reliable reinforcements as they seek to finalize contracts before the closing of their transfer window.
Alan Benitez’s versatility on the field could provide exatamente what Internacional needs as they strive for consistency. His record from last season is promising, with participation in 35 matches, scoring once, and providing three assists. Statistically, he demonstrates strong defensive skills, averaging 3.1 ball recoveries per game, as well as maintaining 79% passing accuracy during the build-up play.
While Internacional has received strong interest from fans and stakeholders, the players currently on their roster must also perform to hold their positions. Víctor Gabriel has found newfound form and is claiming the right-back slot, compelling the club to rethink its midfield and defensive strategies competitively.
Although Internacional’s immediate plans are overshadowed by the pressing injury of Gomes, their search for strengthening the team continues with urgency. Club officials recognize the importance of solidifying both the defense and midfield as they head toward the domestic transfer window, allowing for fresh recruits to join their ranks.
With the close of the international window, it’s apparent Internacional will be racing against the clock as they look to finalize Benitez’s signing, all the meanwhile keeping tabs on the additional recruits needed for sustained success. Keeping fans and analysts alike hopeful, today could determine the club’s roadmap as it strives to reinforce its squad moving forward.
For all updates on the situation surrounding Alan Benitez and other potential signings, fans are encouraged to stay connected through the club’s various social media platforms.