Italian Serie A side Torino are in a battle to keep hold of one of their prized asset this season Joel Obi after Portuguese giants Benfica slapped in a bid for the defensive midfielder.
Obi has been ever present for Torino this season with four goals and two assists from 16 appearances this season, and his form has attracted interest from Benfica.
Benfica are not alone in the race to sign the 26 year old as Spanish LaLiga side Deportivo La Coruna are also interested in his services, but the Lisbon based side appears to be more keen on his services.
Torino are expected to demand a fee in excess of 5 million euros for Obi, whose form has been one of the bright spark of what has been a not too impressive season for the Turin based outfit.
The out of favour Nigeria international midfielder has banished the injury demons that slowed his career down after progressing through the ranks at Serie A giants Inter-Milan.
As reported by Owngoalnigeria.com, he is in contention for a call up to the senior national team of Nigeria later in the year when they regroup for preparations for the World Cup in Russia later in the year.
Ade Emmanuel
