Freddy Adu off to Portugal to finalize Benfica transfer

Freddy Adu was given permission by Real Salt Lake to go to Portugal in an attempt to complete transfer negotiations with Benfica. Real gave permission Saturday, team spokesman Trey Fitz-Gerald said. 

"It's my understanding Freddy wants to go and visit and meet with their management, see their facilities, before making his final decision," MLS spokesman Dan Courtemanche said.

"Major League Soccer and Real Salt Lake have given permission to Freddy Adu to travel to Europe to continue discussions with Portuguese club Benfica," read a statement from RSL coach Jason Kreis. "We would like to thank Freddy for his time here and wish him the best of luck.  Our organization will continue to focus and concentrate on the second half of the MLS season, with our recent success against Everton and Boca Juniors serving as a springboard towards a fresh start."

MLS and Benfica already have agreed to a $2 million transfer fee for the 18-year-old forward and midfielder, who captained the U.S. team at this year's FIFA Under-20 World Cup. Under FIFA's rules, the sides have until Aug. 31 to work out a contract and complete a transfer.

"To my knowledge, they're still continuing their discussions," Courtemanche said.

Adu's agent, Richard Motzkin, declined comment.  Adu left Salt Lake City on Saturday bound for his family home in Washington, D.C. and will be headed to Lisbon on Sunday, according to Fitz-Gerald. Benfica will start play in the European Champions League in the third qualifying round on Aug. 14 or 15. Benfica finished third in the Portuguese League last season after Porto and Sporting Lisbon.