Talented Belgian midfielder Axel Witsel looks set to leave Benfica this summer.

 

According to Portuguese daily Record, the club’s management have informed coach Jorge Jesus that he should not make his plans for the new season with the former Standard Liege player in mind.

 

The claim is the latest in a long line of reports which suggest the midfielder will not be playing his football at the Estadio da Luz next season.

 

Indeed, Witsel is believed to have already said goodbye to several team-mates, so sure is he that he will be on the move.

 

The midfielder, who made a superb impression in last season’s Champions League, is being tracked by some of the biggest clubs in world football.

 

He has been linked with Real Madrid, who are believed to be in pole position for the Belgian, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.

 

The latter are thought to have even offered midfielder Anderson in part exchange, while Vincent Kompany told Witsel not to make a decision on his future before speaking to the Citizens.

 

The race for Witsel then is very much on and Benfica can expect to realise a large sum for the player – his release clause is €40M.

 

Jesus though will have the unenviable task of planning for life without the Belgian.

 

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