Antonio Silva Transfer Exclusive: Benfica are opening up to the prospect of losing star defender Antonio Silva this summer. Liverpool are in pole position to swoop.
Chelsea and Manchester United are also among the interested clubs and the news comes as the Portuguese giants prepare for a busy summer fending off interest in their best players. Midfielder Joao Neves is also being monitored by clubs in England’s elite.
Sources are indicating that of the two players, there would be a better chance of signing Silva. That could be welcome news on Merseyside, with Arne Slot’s side being tipped to make a strong opening bid.
The Reds are looking for new defensive options at a time when Joel Matip is leaving the club. Slot will be looking to increase competition for Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah.
Erik ten Hag’s side have him on their list of summer targets, too. Silva’s release clause of £87million could still prove off-putting but the defender is highly-rated by United scouts. They have recommended him to club chiefs regularly over the past year.
The Blues are interested as well and he could prove a great addition at a time when they are losing namesake Thiago. United are also interested in Neves, who has also been linked with Arsenal this week.
Antonio Silva Transfer Exclusive
Our understanding is that the Gunners interest in Neves is genuine. Yet a transfer this summer is considered unlikely.
Neves is being linked with the Mikel Arteta’s side at a time when the north London outfit are on the hunt for a new midfield option for next season.
It is understood that the 19-year-old Portuguese international is a player Arteta and sporting director Edu would love to take to Emirates Stadium.
Neves is tipped to become one of the best central midfield players in the world. He has also been scouted heavily by United across the past year as he became a regular starter in the Primeira Liga.
Yet, there is a current feeling that a deal this summer will be difficult. Benfica aim to cling on to their teenage gem for as long as possible.
The Eagles hope to convince the player to stay one more season. They may even give him a new contract to reward him for his rise in status.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
