‘There’s some concern’ – Worry one of 4 Premier League clubs will lunge for €100m clause player

Benfica find themselves facing growing anxiety as several Premier League clubs circle around their prized forward Vangelis Pavlidis.

The Greek striker, who only arrived in Lisbon last summer for €20 million, has quickly established himself as one of the most lethal attackers in Europe, amassing an astonishing 28 goals and 11 assists this season.

His explosive form has inevitably attracted attention, with Everton, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United all reportedly monitoring his situation.

While Benfica have no intention of losing their star man, the reality of modern football means they must brace for potential bids. The Portuguese giants have protected themselves with a hefty €100 million release clause in Pavlidis’ contract, but concerns linger that one of the interested clubs could test their resolve with an offer significantly below that figure.

Given the financial muscle of Premier League sides—particularly Newcastle, backed by Saudi investment—Benfica know they could face a serious battle to retain their top scorer.

The links to Barcelona seem far less concrete, despite A Bola’s suggestion that the Catalan club may also be in the mix. Given Barça’s well-documented financial struggles, a move for Pavlidis at anywhere near his release clause appears highly improbable.

The Premier League, with its vast resources, remains the more likely destination should Benfica be forced into a sale.

Everton and West Ham, both in need of a reliable goalscorer, could view Pavlidis as the missing piece in their attacking puzzle. The Toffees have struggled for consistent firepower, while West Ham may seek a long-term replacement for Michail Antonio.

Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, have shown ambition in the transfer market before and could see the Greek international as a statement signing.

Newcastle, with their European ambitions, might consider him an upgrade to complement Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.

Benfica’s reluctance to sell is understandable. Pavlidis has been instrumental in their campaign, and losing him would leave a gaping hole in their attack.

Yet, if a Premier League club tables a substantial offer—even if short of the €100 million clause—the financial temptation could prove difficult to resist.

The coming months will reveal whether Benfica can fend off suitors or if Pavlidis will become the latest talent to make the leap from Portugal to England’s top flight.

For now, the Lisbon club will hope their valuation deters potential buyers, but with Pavlidis’ stock rising by the week, the battle to keep him may only get tougher.

One thing is certain: if he maintains his current form, the speculation will only intensify, leaving Benfica with a major decision to make when the transfer window opens.