Jota left out of Benfica squad with move away on the cards

Benfica's João Filipe, known as Jota, was left out of the Benfica squad yesterday as his side earned a 4-1 victory over Estoril in a preparatory game.

The talented 21-year old has so far failed to live up to expectations at the Estádio da Luz, having been one of the most highly rated youngsters at the club.

After leading Portugal to victory at both the U17 and U19 European Championships, he has been viewed as a future Portugal international in waiting, and even showed more promise in the Benfica academy than João Felix, who completed a stunning €120million move to Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2019.

However, after struggling for game time last season, often used as a very late substitute in the closing stages of matches, Benfica are likely to offload the U21 international this window, and a move abroad is a very plausible option.

Outside of new manager Jorge Jesus’ plans, Filipe needs to find regular game time to continue his development. Nottingham Forest is seen as a potential destination.

Any move is likely to only be a loan, with Benfica still hopeful that Jota will fulfil his significant potential. He has a contract that runs until 2024, with a release clause of 88 million euros.

Dyego Sousa, on loan at Benfica until December, and winger Zivkovic are also not in Jesus’ plans.