Benfica ready to turn to Ogjenovic

Benfica are ready to turn to Real Madrid's unwanted Yugoslavian winger Perica Ognjenovic if their bid to bring Barcelona wideman Simao back to Portugal fails.

The player is aware of Benfica's interest.

He said: "Jorge Valdano told me I might interest Benfica. My agent also approached me with this hypothesis."

"I know nothing in concrete but there may be developments in the next few days. Let's wait and see what happens."

The Simao deal was put on hold earlier this month when Barca insisted on receiving highly-rated striker Pedro Mantorras in exchange.

They also baulked at a clause in Simao's contract stating that former club Sporting Lisbon must receive £2 million if he signs for another Portuguese side.

Benfica insist the move will still go-ahead, but in case it doesn't, they are also now showing an interest in the 25-year-old Ognjenovic.

Ironically, Benfica were offered the Yugoslav last year, but previous coach Jupp Heynckes claimed the player was too short. New coach Toni, however, has no such reservations.

Ognjenovic, currently training in Nyon, just a few miles from Benfica's pre-season camp in Switzerland, has spent the entire season on the sidelines.

Out-of-favour at Real, Ognjenovic demanded a free transfer in February and when that was turned down, asked the Spanish Football Federation to revoke his playing registration.