Tottenham await Andreas Schjelderup decision as Benfica open contract talks

Tottenham Hotspur may soon receive greater clarity over the future of Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup, with the Portuguese club preparing fresh contract talks after the Norway international returned from the FIFA World Cup.

According to both Record and O Jogo, Benfica intend to resume negotiations over a new deal following Thursday's UEFA Europa League qualifier against St. Gallen. The outcome could play a crucial role in determining how the Portuguese giants respond to any transfer interest later in the summer.

Schjelderup returned to Benfica's training base this week after his post-World Cup break alongside fellow Norwegian Fredrik Aursnes.

New head coach Marco Silva is understood to view the 22-year-old as a key part of his plans for the upcoming season, with club officials equally keen to tie the winger down to a longer contract.

Benfica first presented Schjelderup with a renewal offer in May, but the proposal has yet to receive a response. Despite that delay, the club remain relaxed about the situation and are preparing fresh discussions in the coming days.

Club president Rui Costa recently dismissed speculation that Schjelderup is pushing for a move away.

"Schjelderup also has a contract renewal proposal. I have read and heard that he doesn't want to stay at Benfica. That has not been communicated to us.

He was on holiday after the World Cup and will soon return to Benfica. As of today, Benfica have not received any proposal for Schjelderup."

Tottenham have been repeatedly linked with the Norwegian winger throughout the transfer window and are believed to have explored the conditions of a potential move.

However, despite ongoing speculation, Benfica insist they have yet to receive a formal offer from any club.

Liverpool and Chelsea have also been credited with an interest, while Roma continue to monitor developments from Italy.

With Schjelderup under contract until 2028 and protected by a €100 million release clause, Benfica remain in a strong negotiating position.

The upcoming contract talks are expected to provide the clearest indication yet of Schjelderup's intentions.

Should the winger decide to commit his future to Benfica, Tottenham's chances of securing a deal this summer would become significantly more difficult.

If negotiations fail to produce an agreement, Benfica may be forced to reassess their position should serious offers arrive before the transfer window closes.

Schjelderup has emerged as one of Benfica's most valuable young assets following his impressive performances last season and at the World Cup. While Tottenham remain interested, the next phase of the saga is likely to be determined by internal contract discussions rather than transfer negotiations with rival clubs.

Benfica's discussions with Schjelderup are expected to begin after the club's Europa League qualifier against St. Gallen. If progress is made on a new contract, Tottenham may be forced to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements. If no agreement is reached, interest from the Premier League could intensify before the transfer deadline.