Official | Rennes sign Benfica B centre-back Gonçalo Oliveira

Rennes have wrapped up a third summer signing in Benfica B centre-back Gonçalo Oliveira (19), the Bretons have announced. Stade Rennais have previously secured the signings on a free of Adrien Thomasson and Issa Soumaré. The Portugal youth international centre-back has put pen to paper over a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 outfit.

Rennes have reportedly reached a €2,5m agreement with Benfica but, as part of the deal, the Portuguese side have lodged a buyback option. Regarded as one of Portuguese football’s most promising talents, Oliveira enjoyed a remarkable season with Benfica’s B team. Starting in all 33 of his appearances, the left-footed defender played a pivotal role in his team’s run to the semi-finals of the Youth League, where he captained the side. Despite being included in matchday squads, he has not made his debut for the senior side.

Stade Rennais were in the market for a young centre-back after parting ways with Jérémy Jacquet (20), who will join Liverpool this summer for a club-record €72m sale.