Aston Villa midfielder Enzo Valenkea is preparing to make a permanent switch to Benfica after joining a Portuguese club on loan this summer.
The £2.5 million loan arrangement includes Benfica’s obligation to complete the 12 million euro transfer if certain performance-related conditions are met.
Enzo Barrenechea has been on track so far
The move from Valenkea’s villa to Benfica was officially announced in July 2025, with the 24-year-old Argentina arriving on an in-season loan for 3 million euros. The contract features mandatory purchase clause worth 12 million euros. This will be triggered if Barrenechea makes 15 appearances on Benfica this season, according to a report by SportWitness.
Apart from the fees for his transfer, Villa will earn 30% of the profit if Valenkea is sold by Benfica in the future.
Barrenechea has been a key player in Benfica’s midfield so far, and it’s fair to assume he will ultimately meet the requirements for a permanent transfer. He has already been featured in eight club matches and has started all the games.
Barrenechea must leave the villa
The midfielder has no future in Aston Villa. He immediately tries to sort out a permanent exit from the club. Participating in Benfica forever is ideal for him. It is clear that they value him and he will have regular opportunities with them. The player is young enough to improve further and needs to play regularly to continue his development.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa hopes to use the revenue from his departure to improve the team. They do not consider him an important part of the plant and returning to the English club makes no sense to the player.
