Benfica are closing in on the capture of United States international Freddy Adu, according to reports in Portugal.
The Lisbon giants are set to hold talks with the Real Salt Lake youngster after reportedly agreeing a €2million (£1.35m) deal with MLS.
Negotiations are believed to be advanced between the parties and now Benfica are hoping to talk terms with the Ghana-born starlet.
"Now is the time to speak to the player," confirmed Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira.
While Adu is keen on furthering his career in Europe, he insists he will not be rushing his decision to join Benfica.
"I don't want to rush my decision, because it's my life,"Adu told the Salt Lake Tribune.
"It's a very important decision and I want to take my time in making that decision.
"I'm just letting my agent talk to them and just work out the logistics and take care of that end of it."
It's very weird. He was the hottest young talent a few seasons back and lots of European giants are vying for his signature.
Even United gave him a trial earlier this year but chose not to sign him.
He then sign for Real Salt Lake.
I wonder why....
Cheers.
CK
Yeah, so many clubs were interested in him.
Freddy ready to sign for Benfica
American forward Freddy Adu is set to join Benfica and put an end to suggestions he could start the season at Celtic.
Real Salt Lake coach Jason Kreis confirmed 18-year-old Adu has been granted permission to speak to the Portuguese giants over a proposed move.
Adu, whose agent Richard Motzkin recently confirmed interest from Celtic in the teenager, is expected to sign a five-year contract with Benfica.
Kreis said: "Major League Soccer and Real Salt Lake have given permission to Freddy Adu to travel to Europe to continue discussions with Portuguese club Benfica.
"This is certainly a scenario that does not surprise us, and we would like to thank Freddy for his time here and wish him the best of luck."
