The Norwegian football star has impressed sporting director Deco so much that he is now at the top of his wish list – especially after his World Cup breakthrough.
Andreas Schjelderup has become one of the hottest names in Benfica’s transfer window after his formidable performances at the 2026 World Cup. The young winger has attracted the attention of several major European clubs after delivering the goods for the Norwegian national team – and now the Portuguese are considering a sale.
According to the Portuguese newspaper Record, Benfica will not negotiate for less than 50 million euros. A sum that Barcelona are keeping a close eye on – in case they lose their own star, Raphinha, to Saudi Arabian football. Moreover, Benfica’s newly hired manager Marco Silva has put his foot down for sale.
Radiosporten: Marco Silva has called World Cup hero Andreas Schjelderup, who is at home in Norway, and given a clear message
Why Schjelderup is relevant for Barcelona
The Catalan big club has mapped out several options to strengthen the wings, should they lose one of their most important offensive players. Although President Joan Laporta has publicly emphasized Raphinha’s importance to the project, the interest from Saudi Arabia has become so massive that Barcelona must prepare for various scenarios before the transfer window closes.
And into the picture comes Andreas Schjelderup.
The 22-year-old combines youthful energy, raw talent and enormous development potential – exactly what Barcelona have been aiming for in recent years. His development in recent months has convinced Benfica that his market value has increased considerably, which is why they have set a steep price.
From Danish shooting star to Portuguese gold
Schjelderup arrived at Benfica as one of Scandinavia’s biggest talents after shining for Danish club Nordsjælland. (He left Bodø/Glimt six years ago) After a period of adaptation and a loan spell to gain experience, the winger has finally blossomed fully during the 2025/2026 season.
The World Cup confirmed the development. With the Norwegian national team, he made a strong impression with his pace, his ability to challenge opponents one-on-one and his dangerousness on both sides.
This form has made Benfica reconsider their attitude towards the player. According to Portuguese sources, Rui Costa is willing to consider bids – but only if they reach a minimum of 50 million euros.
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Fits like a glove at Barcelona
Barcelona’s interest stems from both the player’s qualities and the uncertainty surrounding Raphinha’s future. The Brazilian remains a key player for Hansi Flick, and the club claim they do not want to sell him. But the offers from Saudi Arabia are still on the table and could reappear in the next few weeks.
Schjelderup excels with his offensive versatility. He can play as a left winger, cut in from the right or even operate more centrally – thanks to his technical quality and his interaction with teammates.
In addition, his age fits perfectly into Barcelona’s sporting strategy: young players with growth potential and high resale value.
Raphinha first – Schjelderup in the background
Despite the speculation, Barcelona’s official stance is clear. Laporta has reiterated that Raphinha is part of the club’s plans and that they have no intention of letting him leave this summer. He considers the Brazilian to be absolutely crucial to Flick’s project.
But the financial aspects of Saudi Arabian offers mean that the sporting management must be vigilant. An extraordinary bid could change the situation overnight and make room for a big signing.
Schjelderup thus appears as a strategic alternative. Although there are no advanced negotiations, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is following the Norwegian closely – as one of Europe’s most promising young wingers.
Benfica wants to maximize profits
In Lisbon, they are fully aware of the player’s current status. The World Cup has significantly increased his international visibility, and Benfica want to take advantage of the situation to achieve the best possible financial return.
The club has a solid reputation for developing young talents before they are sold on to European top leagues. Schjelderup fits perfectly into this model – and Rui Costa is adamant that the price should not be reduced.
It all depends on Raphinha
For now, the winger’s future largely depends on what happens with Raphinha. If the Brazilian stays at Camp Nou, Barcelona are unlikely to go for a transfer of this calibre.
But if Raphinha accepts an offer from Saudi Arabia, Schjelderup could be a hot candidate to fill the void.
At 22 years old, Andreas Schjelderup has all the qualities Barcelona are looking for to strengthen the attack in both the short and long term. Benfica have already priced him at €40 million – a price tag that reflects the Norwegian’s enormous growth – and could potentially make him one of the most important pieces of the summer, if Raphinha’s future takes an unexpected turn.
One thing is certain: The Norwegian World Cup hero is now knocking on the doors of the world’s biggest clubs. The only question is who opens first.
