Brentford Join Race for €15m Winger Amid English Club Interest

Brentford is reportedly one of five English teams keeping a careful eye on Rio Ave winger Andre Luiz, whose outstanding performances in Portugal have garnered growing attention across Europe.

This season, the 23-year-old Brazilian has been in outstanding form and has become one of the Primeira Liga’s best attacking players. Luiz has continued to make an impression since joining Rio Ave from Estrela Amadora in January. In 11 league games during the 2025–26 season, he scored four goals and provided four assists.

Predominantly operating on the right wing, the versatile forward is also capable of playing on the left flank or through the middle as a centre-forward — flexibility that has made him an increasingly valuable asset for manager Sotiris Silaidopoulos.

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Brentford are among several English clubs to have made initial enquiries about Luiz’s availability. Sunderland are also believed to be in the mix, while Portsmouth, Norwich City, and Stoke City — all Championship sides — have expressed interest as well.

Interest in the winger extends beyond England, with Portuguese outfit Braga and several clubs from Europe and Brazil also monitoring his situation. However, Rio Ave are in no rush to sell. Currently battling to secure their top-flight status, the club views Luiz as an essential part of their survival hopes.

As such, Rio Ave are expected to demand at least €15 million (£13 million) before entertaining any offers. Head coach Keith Andrews strengthened his attacking options during the summer with the additions of Dango Ouattara and Reiss Nelson, while Kevin Schade, Gustavo Nunes, and promising youngster Romelle Donovan are also part of his squad.However, Brentford’s attacking balance has been upset by injuries.Despite being highly regarded, Donovan is still viewed as a long-term project, and Nunes has struggled with fitness since joining in 2024. Luiz has become a serious target as the Bees look to add speed and flair for the second half of the season.

Brentford may face fierce competition if they decide to pursue the deal in January, but acquiring Luiz might prove to be a wise investment in the long run.