Real Madrid are ready to make a move for Porto’s Andre Silva, amid reports that Arsenal are interested in the striker
According to Don Balon, Madrid have now turned their attention to Andre Silva after it seems increasingly likely that they have no chance of signing Paulo Dybala. The Juventus forward reportedly agreed a new contract with the Turin side earlier last week, which was a huge blow to any clubs – particularly Real Madrid and Barcelona – that were interested in him.
Don Balon state that Los Blancos have identified Andre Silva as an alternative, after his performances this season have made all the top clubs in Europe sit up and take notice. They further state that Silva has been “endorsed” by his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo, further fueling their desire to sign the player.
The 21-year old Silva was promoted to Porto’s senior team at the beginning of last season, and has not looked back since. He had a slow start, only managing 14 appearances and 3 goals in the 2015-16 season, but this campaign has been a completely different story.
Silva has 15 goals and 3 assists in 23 appearances across all competitions, and has picked up 3 Man of the Match awards according to Whoscored. A highly creative player, Silva is an excellent passer of the ball and is also a very good finisher.
Andre Silva is reportedly a long-term Arsenal target, with Arsene Wenger said to have been keeping track of the Portugese international for a few years now. Arsenal are also said to be stepping up their interest in the striker given his form this season, but it now appears that they will have a bigger challenge on their hands than they expected.
Given Silva’s talent, it is also unsurprising that reports emerged in November that Manchester United and Chelsea had also begun keeping track of the 21-year old. Jose Mourinho will no doubt have a great knowledge of Porto’s best players given his history with the club and his nationality, and will definitely be keeping an eye on the situation.
Antonio Conte is well known for buying young, hungry players and Andre Silva fits that profile perfectly. Given that Diego Costa’s Chelsea future seems ever more uncertain, it is likely that Conte will also be stepping up his interest in the striker.
Another thing that is sure to interest both Conte and Mourinho is Silva’s versatility. Silva has the ability to play anywhere across the frontline and has proven that he is adept at any of those positions.
Any club that is in for Silva will not land him on the cheap, however, as the youngster signed a contract extension at the beginning of this season that will keep him at the club until 2021. This means that Porto – who are well known for getting great value for their players – will hold all the power in any negotiations.
