Benfica eye Ipswich Town winger Jaden Philogene as transfer condition emerges

Benfica's interest in Ipswich Town winger Jaden Philogene will only develop if the Portuguese giants first sanction the departure of one of their current attacking players.

Marco Silva is keen to strengthen his options out wide this summer, but reports in Portugal suggest Benfica are unable to make a formal move for the former Aston Villa winger until space is created within the squad.

According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Benfica have added Philogene to their shortlist of attacking targets.

However, the report makes it clear that any approach for the Ipswich star depends on Andreas Schjelderup leaving the Estádio da Luz before the transfer window closes.

Schjelderup has attracted interest from several clubs this summer, with Chelsea among the sides previously linked with the Norwegian winger.

Until Benfica complete an attacking departure, Philogene remains a player under consideration rather than an active transfer target.

Philogene was an influential figure in Ipswich Town's successful promotion campaign and is now preparing for the club's return to the Premier League.

That leaves Ipswich in a comfortable negotiating position, with little pressure to sell one of their most important attacking players unless a substantial offer arrives.

The 24-year-old has also attracted interest from clubs in England, while Serie A sides Bologna and Roma have been credited with monitoring his situation.

Any competition for his signature would only strengthen Ipswich's stance during negotiations.

While Benfica continue to assess attacking reinforcements, their immediate focus remains on reshaping the squad rather than making new additions.

Only after an outgoing transfer is completed are the Portuguese club expected to decide whether to intensify their pursuit of Philogene.

For now, the situation remains one to watch rather than a deal approaching completion, with Schjelderup's future likely to determine whether Benfica formally enter the race for the Ipswich winger.

Benfica's next move will depend on whether they can complete an attacking departure before the transfer window closes. Until then, Ipswich are expected to retain Philogene, although continued interest from clubs across Europe means his future will remain one to watch.

Should Ipswich Town reject any offers for Jaden Philogene after earning promotion to the Premier League?