From Portugal: Brighton left behind on winger chase – Benfica close in on €20m deal

Brighton looked to have positioned themselves perfectly to land Jakub Kaminski after weeks of reports in Germany suggested they were leading the race for the Cologne winger.

The picture has now changed quite dramatically.

Portuguese newspaper Record reports Benfica have surged ahead of Brighton in the battle for the Poland international. They are now confident of completing a deal within the next few days.

Benfica move changes transfer picture

We have covered the growing speculation around Kaminski throughout the past few weeks.

German reports first explained Brighton had switched their attention to the winger after moving away from Said El Mala. Then they revealed the Seagulls were prepared to activate a €20m (£17.3m) release clause that remains valid until the middle of July.

There was also confidence in Cologne that Kaminski’s transfer could be completed within days. Also, the player has openly admitted the Premier League was his dream destination.

According to Record, however, Benfica have now overtaken Brighton and are negotiating directly with Cologne. The Portuguese club are optimistic an agreement can be reached quickly. They believe manager Marco Silva can welcome the winger for the early stages of pre-season.

The newspaper adds that Brighton remain interested, while RB Leipzig have also tracked the situation. Either way, Benfica are now considered to be in pole position.

Brighton now face waiting game

If Record’s information proves accurate, Brighton’s long-standing interest may not even reach the stage of triggering Kaminski’s €20m (£17.3m) clause. This may happen before Benfica get the deal over the line.

The fee remains unchanged. Cologne are looking to cash in after exercising their option to sign the winger permanently this summer.

Kaminski enjoyed an impressive campaign, scoring seven goals and providing five assists in the Bundesliga, while his versatility has attracted admirers across Europe.

Record also highlights his ability to play on either wing, as a wing-back in a back-three system or as a second striker, alongside his outstanding physical output last season.

Whether Brighton can respond remains to be seen, but after appearing to hold the strongest hand for several weeks, the Seagulls are now being portrayed as chasing a transfer that suddenly looks much closer to Benfica.