Jota Silva is surely one of the breakthrough stars of European football this season but not a great deal is heard about him because he plays for Vitoria Guimaraes.
The 24-year-old, who can play various roles in attack, has scored 15 goals and added seven assists so far this season, usually playing on the right wing.
He should have a queue of clubs beating his door down and yet it’s only really Brighton & Hove Albion who, at least from the Premier League, have clearly been pinpointed recently.
Earlier this month we covered a report from Portugal which stated Brighton have been watching the player in action, and they surely must be pleased with what they’ve seen.
Jota Silva made his Portugal debut in the last international break, and was recently named the Portuguese league’s Forward of the Month and Player of the Month for March.
He was presented with those awards this week and shared his feelings. O Jogo quote the player as saying: “I really like scoring goals, but I especially like helping the team. So, I’m glad I scored those four goals, but it’s even better that the team won all four games. With the football we are playing and the campaign we are running, it is much easier for individualities to stand out.
“It was a fantastic month and one to remember later. Being called up to the national team was incredible and making my debut here in Guimaraes was even better. A day that I will never forget and that will forever be marked in my life. It was a busy month, but I hope we can have a month like this more often.”
Jota Silva has a €20m release clause, although with his contract having just over a year left there’s been multiple reports he could be sold for even less this summer.
Brighton should pay serious attention.