Rui Modesto Transfer: Udinese Wing-Back Linked With Levski Sofia
Football Transfer News
Rui Modesto has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Levski Sofia, with the Bulgarian club being linked with a move for the Portuguese-born Angola international currently contracted to Udinese.
The 26-year-old Modesto has built an interesting career across several European leagues and could represent an attractive option for Levski as the club continues to assess potential reinforcements. However, at this stage, the reported transfer should be treated as speculation rather than a confirmed agreement.
Modesto joined Udinese in August 2024 from Swedish side AIK, signing a four-year contract. Udinese described him as a quick, attacking-minded wide player capable of operating as a wing-back, while highlighting his ability to contribute in the final third.
His route to Serie A was built through experience in Portugal, Finland and Sweden. He developed through Portuguese youth football before moving to Finland, where he played for Honka. He subsequently joined AIK and became an important attacking player from the flank.
At AIK, Modesto produced impressive numbers. The club’s official transfer announcement stated that he recorded 16 goals and seven assists in 60 competitive appearances before his move to Italy.
His performances earned him a move to Udinese, where the club believed his pace, attacking ability and work rate could provide another dimension to the right side. Modesto himself said after arriving in Italy that he was fast, attack-minded and enjoyed getting forward, although he recognised that he needed to improve defensively to adapt to Serie A.
The situation around his future, however, has since become more complicated. In February 2026, Udinese sent Modesto to Palermo on loan with an obligation to buy if certain conditions were fulfilled.
That arrangement means any potential move to Levski Sofia would depend on the precise status of Modesto’s agreement with Udinese and Palermo. Current player data lists him as an Udinese player while also recording the Palermo loan spell, making the contractual situation an important factor in any future negotiations.
For Levski, Modesto’s versatility could nevertheless make him an appealing target. He can operate as a winger, wing-back or full-back, giving a coach additional tactical options. His attacking instincts could also provide greater width and energy, particularly in matches where Levski need to break down defensive opponents.
The Bulgarian side would also be acquiring a player with international experience. Modesto represents Angola at senior level after choosing to play internationally for the country despite being born in Portugal.
There is currently no confirmed announcement from Levski Sofia or Udinese stating that a transfer has been completed. A transfer listing has nevertheless connected Modesto with Levski, while noting his existing contractual situation and the uncertainty surrounding his next move.
If negotiations develop, the financial structure of the deal could become decisive. Udinese signed Modesto from AIK on a permanent transfer in 2024, and his long-term contract means the Italian club has an interest in protecting the value of the player.
For now, Levski supporters will have to wait for further developments. Modesto would bring European experience, attacking quality and positional flexibility, but whether those qualities will eventually be seen in a Levski shirt remains uncertain.
The reported interest is therefore one to watch closely as the transfer window progresses. If Levski Sofia can reach an agreement with the relevant clubs and the player, Rui Modesto could become an intriguing addition to the Bulgarian side’s squad.
