Fabio Rochemback's agent has played down talk that the Brazilian is set to replace Manuel Fernandes at Benfica.
The 25-year-olds future was up-in-the-air for much of last term, but a move back to his former club Sporting Lisbon failed to materialise in January and after that he worked his way back into Gareth Southgate's plans.
Now with Benfica showing an interest, Horacio Gagioli has admitted that a move to the Estadio da Luz is unlikely.
"Fabio Rochemback has already played with Sporting and likes Lisbon and Portugal. It is a country where he has excellent memories," Gagioli told Diario de Noticias.
"However, he has a contract with Middlesbrough that is valid until June 2008 and there is an option for an extra two years with the club.
"Therefore I have serious doubts as to whether Middlesbrough would let him leave now as they are happy with Rochemback.
"Perhaps in January, Benfica could make contact."
