Benfica bolster with defender Lisandro López

SL Benfica have continued their busy summer in the transfer market with the signing of Argentinian centre-back Lisandro López from Arsenal Fútbol Club.

López, 23, has signed a five-year deal with the side who finished runners-up in the Liga, Portuguese Cup and UEFA Europa League last season. The fee was undisclosed, but he has a €35m release clause in his contract.

"I have chosen Benfica because they are one of the biggest clubs in Europe and many Argentinians have succeeded here," López told the club website. "I am anxious to start. If I play well here I may get a chance in my country's national team."

López started his career at CA Chacarita Juniors and impressed in a three-season spell at Arsenal, contributing 18 goals in 119 appearances. He revealed that a compatriot helped convince him it was the right move. "I talked to Pablo Aimar. He said Lisbon was beautiful and Benfica was huge and magical. He told me to enjoy my stay here to the full."

Benfica, who will be in the UEFA Champions League group stage this season, have had a busy summer behind the scenes. Five Serbian players have arrived – Stefan Mitrović, Lazar Marković, Miralem Sulejmani, Filip Djuričić and Uroš Matić – as well as central defender Steven Vitória.