Benfica’s second-largest shareholder, José António dos Santos, is in talks with new investors interested in buying his 16.4% stake in the Portuguese club.
The talks come after a previous deal to sell the stake fell through.
Dos Santos said several investors have approached him about buying his shares. He is willing to sell for about €15 per share.
“There are two or three other investors interested in my stake,” dos Santos said in a telephone interview, without identifying them. “I have my price target, which is €15 per share.”
His asking price is more than twice Benfica’s closing share price on Tuesday.
Business news website Eco reported Wednesday that Benfica would be interested in buying Dos Santos’ stake at the current market price.
The report cited an interview with Benfica’s chief financial officer, Nuno Catarino.
Dos Santos, however, said there are currently no talks with Benfica over a possible sale.
Benfica shares fell 0.6% on Wednesday to €6.52. The drop gave the club a market value of about €150 million.
The club’s member-owned parent controls a 64% stake in Benfica.
The fresh interest follows the collapse of US investor Tim Leiweke’s agreement to buy Dos Santos’ stake at a premium.
Benfica had raised concerns over Leiweke’s investments in other European clubs. The club said they could violate its bylaws.
Foreign investors have shown growing interest in Portuguese football. US-based Lenore Sports Partners acquired a 5.24% stake in Benfica last year.
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