Premier League clubs Arsenal and Everton are keeping a close eye on Benfica midfielder Rafa Silva, as per reports in Correio de Manha.
Rafa Silva was in tremendous form last season, scoring 17 goals in just 26 league matches for Benfica but this campaign his form has dropped a bit as he has netted only five goals in 15 Liga NOS games so far.
Both these English sides are planning to bring in a new midfielder in the summer and there’s a chance these two sides could start a bidding war for the 27-year-old.
While Silva is undoubtedly a good-enough talent but he currently has a release clause of £71.5million in his contract which expires in 2024 and this immediately puts him out of the reach of Everton as well as Arsenal.
Are Arsenal & Everton ready to pay £71.5m for Rafa Silva?
Rafa Silva’s currently release clause is way beyond the two clubs’ abilities but thankfully they will not have to pay such an absurd amount to sign the midfielder cum winger.
Arsenal and Everton’s aren’t the only clubs interested in signing Silva since as per The Sun, Newcastle United have also been keeping tabs on the player.
As per the report, the Magpies are confident they can secure the transfer for as little as £15 million despite the £25 million but right now they are a bit sceptical in making a formal offer.
So it’s clear the likes of Arsenal and Everton will be able to bring Rafa Silva on board for around £20 million which is precisely why the two sides have shown such a keen interest.
Primarily a left-sided midfielder, Rafa Silva can play on either wing and also as a supporting striker. And if either of the two PL clubs manages to land such a versatile player for just £20 million then they will be able to save on a lot of money in the summer.
