The agent of Benfica winger Rafa Silva has again talked about Newcastle United’s interest in the player.
The representative had already done it on Monday, when speaking to Rádio Renascença. Despite claiming Silva’s wish to renew his contract with Benfica, he named the Magpies as ‘one of those interested’.
Now interviewed by newspaper O Jogo, Antônio Araújo has done the same thing today: teasing with Newcastle’s interest, but saying the player’s intention is to stay in Lisbon.
“I don’t like to talk a lot about these issues, but once that has been said, I confirm that Newcastle are one of the interested,” Antonio Araújo told O Jogo.
“It is important for the player to concentrate on being a champion for Benfica. He feels very good at the club and the club is happy with his performances.”
O Jogo claims that Araujo will sit with Benfica to negotiate a new contract before the end of the week. Rafa’s intention is to be one of the best paid athletes in the squad, and make over €2m net per season.
“Thursday or Friday we will talk again and there may be some decision. I’m optimistic about that,” said the agent.
Rafa Silva has 19 goals and three assists in 42 appearances for Benfica this season. His current contract, which runs until 2021, is protected by a €60m release clause.
Are Newcastle being used to get a better deal? Quite possibly.
