Portuguese champions Benfica have joined Liverpool and Porto in the race to sign Braga left winger Rafa Silva, according to Abola. The 23 year old has a release clause in his contract of €20million (£15m) but there are some complications for any prospective bidder due to who owns the player.
While 30% of Silva’s sporting rights belong to Braga, 50% belong to agent Jorge Mendes, 10% belong to previous club Feirense and another 10% is owned by businessman Antonio Araujo.
In January, Benfica rivals Porto bid €16million for the player but the offer was rejected after it didn’t meet the release clause, despite the club being prepared to offer players as part of the deal. Silva’s side Braga then beat Porto 4-2 on penalties in the Portuguese Cup final yesterday; their first victory in the competition since 1966.
In addition to Liverpool, Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen are also watching the player. He has scored 12 goals and provided 4 assists in 48 matches in all competitions this season.
