Long term Manchester United and Liverpool target Nicolas Gaitan has signed a new four year deal with Benfica, that includes a £27.5 million release clause.
Both clubs tried to buy the versatile midfielder in the summer, and were reportedly ready to bid for the Argentine in January.
Spanish champions Atletico Madrid and Monaco were also said to be interested.
The 26 year old’s new deal in the Portuguese capital keeps him there until 2018, having joined the club from Boca Juniors in 2010.
Benfica have historically been a selling club with the likes of Angel Di Maria, David Luiz, Oscar Cardozo and Fabio Coentrao all being flogged off in recent years.
They will be grateful Gaitan, one of their prized assets, has committed his future to the club.
By Joseph Richardson