Benfica up Di Maria ante

16 September 2009 18:55
Benfica have increased their buy-out clause to 50million euros for coveted Argentinian forward Angel Di Maria. The 21-year-old moved to Portugal in 2007 from Rosario Central and has attracted considerable attention since, not least as he scored the winner in the 2008 Olympic final against Nigeria. The player, who has gone on to make three appearances for the Argentina senior side, has previously been linked with Chelsea, Arsenal, Inter Milan and Real Madrid. His buy-out clause has now been upped from 30million to 50million euros ahead of any possible bids. Despite speculation, Di Maria insists that he wants to simply concentrate on playing and a major aim is to help Argentina qualify for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa. Di Maria said: "I live in the present and not the future. "My deal is with Benfica although I am pleased by the news of interest from foreign clubs in me. "This season is decisive for me and I still want to help Argentina fight for the 2010 World Cup."

Source: SKY_Sports