New Delhi, July 20 -- Richard Rios, the 25-year-old Colombian midfielder, is set to join Portuguese giants Benfica, ending a prolonged transfer saga with AS Roma. After weeks of negotiations, particularly with Roma, Rios has chosen a move to Lisbon, according to reports.

Benfica's sporting director, Rui Pedro Braz, finalized the deal with Palmeiras for €30 million, payable in three installments, according to Fabrizio Romano. Richard Rios is expected in Lisbon next week for a medical to complete his transfer to the Portuguese club.

Richard Rios was a priority for Roma's manager Gian Piero Gasperini, but the midfielder's hesitation and Palmeiras' firm €30 million valuation led Roma to shift focus to RC Lens' Neil El Aynaoui. ...