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#3 Ederson - €40 million
The Brazilian goalkeeper became a target for Manchester City after his incredible performance at Benfica. Before his move to Portugal, Ederson played for a couple of Brazilian clubs which helped him earn his recognition in Europe.
Pep Guardiola noted his impressive performances and signed him in 2017, making him the second-most expensive goalkeeper at that time. By selling Ederson to Manchester City, Benfica recorded one of their best ever deals. They signed the goalkeeper for just €500,000 and were able to receive €40 million on his sale.
Ederson became Guardiola's primary choice right away and has gone on to deliver trophy-winning performances. His improving form has earned him a battling chance for the No.1 spot in the Brazil squad alongside Alisson Becker.
#2 Ruben Dias - €68 million
A complete product of the Benfica academy, Ruben Dias is in the process of cementing himself as one of the best defenders on the planet. He started his Benfica career as a youth and represented the B-team for two years, before earning his promotion to the first-team.
Dias put up impressive displays in his initial months which eventually attracted attention from Lyon who were preparing a big money move. However, Dias shut that down by extending his contract with Benfica.
Another thriving season attracted attention from the Premier League giants, whose offer Benfica decided to accept. In September 2020, Manchester City signed the 24-year-old defender for €68 million.
He became a crucial addition for the Blue side in Manchester as they won back the league title. Dias was named the club's Player of the Season as well as Premier League Player of the Season in his initial year.
#1 Joao Felix - €127.20 million
Joao Felix became the club's most expensive departure when Atletico Madrid signed him in 2019. The Golden Boy winner has been termed as one of the most promising talents after his eye-catching display with Benfica.
Felix graduated from the the Portuguese club's academy and went on to feature for the B-team for two seasons. His promotion to the first-team earned him more experience as well as recognition from other clubs.
With many clubs interested in the hot prospect, it was Atletico Madrid who won the race as they spent €127.20 million, making him the most expensive Primeira Liga departure, the second-most expensive teenager and the fourth-most expensive player.
Since his move to La Liga, the 22-year-old forward has not been able to replicate his form with frequent injuries hampering his flow. However, he can become one of the unstoppable forces in the future once he overcomes the hurdles.
