Alessandro Circati Benfica move has been finalised, with the Socceroos centre-back joining the Portuguese champions from Parma on a long-term deal reportedly worth 20 million euros (33 million dollars).
The transfer continues a busy window for Australia internationals. It follows Lucas Herrington’s switch from the MLS to Hull City, making him Australia’s sole Premier League representative there, and Nestory Irankunda’s move from Watford to Sporting. On Wednesday, Nishan Velupillay also completed a move from Melbourne Victory to FC Ingolstadt 04, while other reports have linked leading clubs with Norwich striker Mohamed Touré.
According to the club, Circati has signed a five-year contract through to 2031. The 22-year-old moves from Italy’s Serie A to Portugal’s Primeira Liga to join the Lisbon side, who are double European champions.
Speaking to supporters on the club’s website, Circati described the transfer as a huge honour and a privilege. He said he looks forward to playing in front of the fans and targeting as many titles as possible. He added that the move is a reward for years of hard work and that he is delighted to be at Benfica.
Alessandro Circati Benfica debut expectations
The Italian-born defender will call the Estádio da Luz, the Stadium of Light, home. He said the arena left a strong impression and that he is very excited to play there. On adapting, he noted he can operate as a centre-back in either a back four or back three. He acknowledged it may take time to settle but expects to integrate quickly with help from teammates and staff.
Circati progressed through Perth Glory’s youth system before earning a trial at Parma in 2021 that led to his return to Italy. He rose swiftly with the northern club and stood out last season as they finished 12th in Serie A.
He featured in all four of the Socceroos’ World Cup matches and now has 17 senior caps and one international goal.
Parma paid tribute in a statement, noting that Circati made 96 appearances for the club, including 37 in Serie A, scored two goals and played a key role in the 2023/24 Serie B title and in securing top-flight survival over the following two seasons. President Kyle J Krause, CEO Federico Cherubini and the Parma Calcio family thanked him and wished him success in the next chapter of his career.
World Cup Socceroos on the move
- Patrick Beach: Melbourne City (Aus) to Troyes (Fra)
- Cammy Devlin: Hearts (Sco) to Rangers (Sco)
- Ajdin Hrustic: Heracles Almelo (Ned) to Al Nasr (UAE)
- Jackson Irvine: St Pauli (Ger) to Cerezo Osaka (Jpn)
- Awer Mabil: CD Castellon (Esp) to Melbourne City (Aus)
- Paul Okon-Engstler: Sydney FC (Aus) to FC Koln (Ger)
- Lucas Herrington: Colorado Rapids (US) to Hull City (Eng)
- Nestory Irankunda: Watford (Eng) to Sporting (Por)
- Nishan Velupillay: Melbourne Victory (Aus) to Ingolstadt 04 (Ger)
- Alessandro Circati: Parma (Ita) to Benfica (Por)
The transfer continues a busy window for Australia internationals. It follows Lucas Herrington’s switch from the MLS to Hull City, making him Australia’s sole Premier League representative there, and Nestory Irankunda’s move from Watford to Sporting, mirroring trends seen in other European moves such as Amar Dedic Newcastle move completed in £30m deal from Benfica.