Marco Silva is under consideration by Premier League duo Everton and Southampton – but he’s been linked with Primeira Liga champions Benfica.
Marco Silva’s spell at Watford might not have ended the way he wanted, with a disastrous run of results and accusations that he was angling for a move elsewhere, but the highly-rated tactician’s reputation in England remains high.
The Sun (13th March, page 52) stated that Silva was the early frontrunner to replace Mauricio Pellegrino at Southampton while the Liverpool Echo have provided an update stating that Everton, who very obviously courted Silva in the autumn and played a major part in his exit from Watford, remains interested in the Portuguese manager amid doubts about Sam Allardyce’s long-term suitability.
Following reports that Silva was set for Benfica, Southampton appear to have turned to Mark Hughes, while Everton have a number of alternative options in their sights.
Though the former Sporting Lisbon and Olympiakos boss has now moved to put an emphatic end to reports that he could replace Rui Vitoria at the Estadio da Luz.
“There is no truth in this story, he does not plan to work in Portugal in the near future,” Carlos Goncalves said in quotes reported by A Bola.
Everton have renewed hope.
Per Sky Sports, The Saints are in advanced talks with Hughes and they are understood to be looking for a manager with Premier League experience. Silva, however, brought about an immediate improvement during spells at Hull City and Watford, meaning the Saints may have missed out on a much better option.
Everton, meanwhile, were so hopeful of appointing Silva when they sacked Ronald Koeman that they were willing to pay Watford £10 million in compensation.
Now, however, they could get the man they wanted for nothing if Allardyce does indeed depart.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
