Sporting CP's €30M signing Rodrigo Zalazar has dismissed Benfica transfer rumors
Uruguayan midfielder Rodrigo Zalazar has publicly ruled out any move to Benfica, reaffirming his commitment to Sporting CP following the World Cup in Miami. The 26-year-old, speaking to Portuguese media after Uruguay's 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia at the Hard Rock Stadium, was categorical in his denial: "They never spoke to me. I am very happy to be at Sporting."
The Record Transfer
Zalazar joined Sporting from Braga for €30M on a five-year contract running until June 30, 2031, making it the most expensive transfer between Portuguese clubs. The midfielder signed an €80M release clause as part of the deal, designed to protect Sporting's investment.
"I'm very happy to join a big club. A giant club," he said. "From the first day, the people at the club and the fans have treated me incredibly. I can't wait to see everyone at Alvalade."
Settling Transfer Speculation
When asked about persistent rumors linking him to Benfica, Sporting's arch-rivals, Zalazar left no room for ambiguity. He explained that his decision to join Sporting was straightforward from the outset. "When Sporting spoke to me, my agent made it very clear they wanted me to go there. I was very happy to hear that. From the first conversation we had with Sporting, I wanted to go there."
World Cup Focus
Despite his strong club form at Braga, Zalazar remained on the bench during Uruguay's opening group stage match in Miami. Manager Marcelo Bielsa opted for a different midfield configuration, with teammate Maxi Araújo—also a Sporting player—coming off the bench to score the equalizer in the 80th minute.
Zalazar showed no frustration with his supporting role. "Obviously I want to play. That's why I'm here, to represent my country. It's a dream for me and all my teammates," he said. "I wasn't the only one who stayed on the bench today. Now it's about working to find an opportunity, and when it comes, I have to be ready."
He praised fellow Sporting recruit Araújo, who joined from Toluca in 2024. "I'm very happy for him. He's a great player and an excellent person. He deserves everything he's experiencing because he works very hard for it. In recent years at Sporting and in Mexico, he showed what he's capable of. He deserves the goal and the World Cup debut."
Sporting's Summer Recruitment
Zalazar is the first official signing announced by Sporting for the 2026/27 season. The club is investing approximately €60M across four new arrivals as part of their summer reconstruction, with pre-season training beginning in approximately two weeks.
The Uruguayan midfielder will look to make an immediate impact when he reports for pre-season, having already made a firm commitment to his new club despite the persistent speculation linking him elsewhere.
