Benfica are interested in AC Milan star Ronaldinho. Corriere dello Sport says Benfica chief Rui Costa is taking advanatge of his close ties with Milan to explore the prospect of bringing the former World Player of the Year to Lisbon.

Benfica coach Jorge Jesus is also behind the push, as he has a close relationship with Ronie's brother and agent, Roberto de Assis.

The stumbling block for Benfica, however, is Ronaldinho's €6.5 million salary, which is well outside their budget.

Benfica have been encouraged to pursue Ronaldinho after seeing the likes of Botafogo and Sao Paulo discuss openly the prospect of luring the midfield ace back to Brazil in June.