Dodi Lukebakio Joins Benfica in €20 Million Move from Sevilla.
Lisbon, 1 September 2025 – Portuguese giants S.L. Benfica have officially announced the signing of Dodi Lukebakio from Spanish club Sevilla FC for a fee of €20 million, with an additional €4 million in potential performance-related add-ons. The Belgian international has signed a contract that will keep him at the Estádio da Luz until June 2030, with the club inserting a €50 million release clause into the deal.
The transfer was finalized on the last day of the summer transfer window, signaling Benfica’s intent to bolster their attacking options ahead of a demanding domestic and European campaign.
A Key Addition to Benfica’s Attack
At 27, Dodi Lukebakio brings a combination of experience and versatility to Benfica’s forward line. Known for his blistering pace, direct dribbling, and ability to operate on either wing or as a secondary striker, the Belgian is expected to play a pivotal role in manager Roger Schmidt’s attacking setup.
Having previously played in the Bundesliga with Hertha Berlin and Wolfsburg, Lukebakio made the switch to La Liga in 2023, joining Sevilla. Though his time in Spain had moments of brilliance, he struggled with consistency in a transitional Sevilla side, prompting the move to Portugal in search of a more stable environment and increased playing time.
Benfica’s technical director Rui Costa described the signing as a “strategic investment” in the club’s sporting future. “Lukebakio is a player with a unique profile—strong, intelligent, and dynamic. He brings the kind of European-level experience we need, especially with our ambitions in the Champions League,” Costa said during the unveiling.
Contract Details and Sell-On Clause
The initial €20 million transfer fee makes Lukebakio one of the most expensive signings in Benfica’s recent history, underlining the club’s willingness to invest in top-tier talent. The €4 million in potential bonuses are reportedly linked to appearances, goals, and team achievements in domestic and European competitions.
Importantly, Sevilla retain 15% of any capital gain from a future sale of Lukebakio. For example, if Benfica were to sell the player for €60 million, Sevilla would receive 15% of the €40 million profit (€6 million).
This kind of clause has become increasingly common in modern football, especially with young or prime-age players. It reflects Sevilla’s confidence in Lukebakio’s continued development and market value at a club renowned for player growth.
A Look at Lukebakio’s Career So Far
Born in Belgium to Congolese parents, Lukebakio began his professional career at Anderlecht before moving to Charleroi and later Watford in the English Premier League. However, it was in Germany where he truly made a name for himself, particularly during a loan spell at Fortuna Düsseldorf where he famously scored a hat-trick against Bayern Munich in 2018.
He has since earned 12 caps for the Belgian national team, with strong hopes of making the squad for UEFA Euro 2028, assuming he continues to perform at club level.
Benfica’s Transfer Strategy
Lukebakio’s arrival follows Benfica’s broader strategy of blending experienced internationals with rising domestic talents. His signing comes on the heels of several notable exits, including Kerem Aktürkoğlu to Fenerbahçe and Florentino Luís to Burnley, and signals the club’s ambition to reassert dominance in the Primeira Liga and advance deep into European competitions.
With Champions League group stage matches on the horizon and a competitive league campaign underway, Lukebakio’s presence could be a decisive factor in Benfica’s success this season.
Final Thoughts
For Lukebakio, this move represents a fresh start and an opportunity to become a central figure at a club with a rich history and continental pedigree. For Benfica, it’s a statement signing—one that demonstrates the club’s ambitions and willingness to invest wisely in players who can deliver immediate impact and future profit.
If all goes as planned, this deal could be a win-win for both player and club—and potentially, for Sevilla as well.
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