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Bye bye, Bebe - Benfica sign United flop

ESPN staff
July 25, 2014
Bebe spent last season on loan at Pacos de Ferreira having been cast aside by Manchester United © Getty Images
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Benfica have announced the signing of Bebe from Manchester United on a four-year contract, with United confirming the fee could rise to €3 million (£2.4m).

Bebe joined United for a staggering £7m in 2010 from Vitoria de Guimaraes despite Sir Alex Ferguson admitting he had never seen the player in the flesh.

That deal has been made all the more galling in recent weeks as it has been claimed that Bebe was signed in favour of James Rodriguez, who United could have had for £5m and who has joined Real Madrid for £70m after starring for Colombia at the World Cup.

Bebe, now 24, was unable to make his mark at Old Trafford and has spent recent seasons out on loan. After impressing with Pacos de Ferreira last season, he has now signed with the Portuguese champions.

Before the deal was confirmed, Bebe had told Portuguese radio station Renascenca: "It would be a good opportunity to relaunch my career. I'll certainly have more chances to play and show myself." The attacker added that he would not be sent on loan this season.

United also confirmed in a tweet that the player had departed Old Trafford, revealing the fee and a clause in his contract which entitles them to 50% of any sell-on fee.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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