Liverpool have ‘sent scouts’ to watch Benfica defender Antonio Silva ahead of a potential move to the Premier League, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
The Lowdown: £87m release clause
The Reds have been heavily linked with a move for RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol but Jurgen Klopp has reportedly made the 19-year-old one of his top transfer targets this summer.
The Portuguese has a €100m (£87m) release clause included in his current contract which the Anfield outfit wouldn’t be willing to pay, but they remain hopeful that a deal can be struck thanks to their strong relationship with the club having purchased Darwin Nunez.
Journalist Jacque Talbot has claimed that this situation could be ‘one to watch’ as the season draws to a close, and it appears that the hierarchy are already taking the necessary next steps…
The Latest: Liverpool scout Silva
According to Jacobs (via CaughtOffside), Liverpool and four other potential suitors are completing background checks on Silva ahead of the upcoming window. He said:
“Silva is contracted until 2027 with a €100m release clause. Real Madrid, Liverpool, Dortmund, Napoli and Manchester United are among the clubs who have recently sent scouts to see Silva play.
“But there’s nothing to get too excited about just yet. It’s normal to watch top young players at this stage of the season and it will take time before it’s clear if any club moves.
“It will be interesting to see how Benfica handle summer suitors if they do arrive. They really don’t want to lose Silva yet, and although Rui Costa said the same about Enzo Fernandez, the fact they got €121m from that deal leaves them with no need to sell.”
The Verdict: Potential advantage?
Silva shares the same agent as Fabinho, Diogo Jota and Nunez which could give Liverpool the potential edge over their competitors when trying to get a deal over the line.
The 6 foot 1 ace currently averages 3.2 clearances and two tackles per league game, via WhoScored, whilst ranking in the 99th percentile for pass completion, highlighting his calmness and composure when playing out from the back.
The Adidas-sponsored centre-back has only made 33 senior career appearances given his young age but already has two international caps to his name having been chosen to represent Portugal at the World Cup in 2022.
Finally, Silva has been hailed a ‘superstar’ by Reds legend Jamie Carragher and he would be a hugely exciting signing for the future of the club in years to come.