According to GOAL, Monza striker Gustavo Varela's strong start in Italy has drawn transfer interest. GOAL reported that Inter have begun scouting the 21-year-old, while Benfica hold matching rights on future offers but do not have a buy-back clause.
Fast start in Serie A
Varela, a Portuguese striker, has scored six goals in Serie A in his first season in Italy. He has 6 goals after 7 league matchdays despite missing one match through injury.
Those 6 goals account for 6 of Monza's 13 goals. He has also scored another 2 in the Coppa Italia in his debut season in Italy.
Varela is the joint second-highest scorer in Serie A alongside Donyell Malen, behind Antonio Raimondo.
Display against Cagliari
At the U Power Stadium, Monza beat Cagliari 4-0 as Varela scored twice and provided an assist.
GOAL reported that Inter sporting director Dario Baccin watched Varela against Cagliari and came away impressed.
Monza deal and Benfica rights
Benfica sold Varela in the summer and retained matching rights, giving them the right to match future offers. GOAL reported that Benfica do not have a buy-back right for Varela.
GOAL reported that Monza have full control of the player. GOAL reported that the player's registration belongs entirely to Monza, who signed him permanently in the summer for a fixed fee of just over €2 million.
GOAL reported that Benfica will also have 20% of any future profit made by Monza.
Quotes from Varela and Fernando
Asked about his biggest dream, Varela was clear: "I've played against my father. What more could I ask for? Beyond that, the Portuguese national team is a big goal."
Varela's father Fernando, a centre-back, said: "I took him with me, we had breakfast and then I let him wander around the pitch."
Fernando also said: "I told the coach to let him do it, because it was impossible to keep him still"
Fernando said: "I asked for and received help: from my in-laws, my parents and my friends."