According to Globo Esporte Futebol, citing A Bola, the Benfica have agreed to loan out Richard Ríos to Al-Ittihad, a Saudi Arabian club, for a reported 3 million euros. The deal sees the Al-Ittihad take on the full salary of the 26-year-old Colombian midfielder, who joined the Benfica in 2025 on a contract until 2030.
The loan agreement does not include an option for the Benfica to buy Ríos, meaning the Portuguese club will temporarily reduce their costs with the player. Ríos had been a contender for a spot in the Benfica's starting lineup, but the club has maintained their rights to the player during the loan period.
The Al-Ittihad's move for Ríos comes after the Colombian midfielder's impressive performances in the Benfica's preseason and early season games.