West Brom want to loan Andre Horta for the upcoming season but it appears that Benfica are not convinced by the potential deal.
West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis has hardly played down his desire for new signings before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month.
The Baggies have enjoyed a fine start to the season, winning two out of two to sit second behind early pacesetters Manchester United, but they have added only Gareth Barry, Ahmed Hagazi and Jay Rodriguez to their squad so far this summer.
The 20-year-old showed glimpses of his talent during a breakthrough season last time out, starting seven Primeira Liga games as the Lisbon giants lifted the league title. And the report claims that West Brom are keen to sign him on loan for the upcoming campaign, and are even willing to pay his wages to encourage Benfica to consider a deal.
However, it appears that they still have a challenge on their hands convincing Benfica to part with the Portuguese Under-21 international, even on a temporary basis.
Because the report adds that Benfica manager Rui Vitoria sees Horta as a crucial part of his squad despite the impressive array of midfield options at his disposal.
Vitoria handed Horta his change in the first-team last season and was repaid by a number of eye-catching displays, the playmakers dribbling ability and razor-sharp passing making him an excellent fit for Benfica’s possession-based game.
Therefore, he would add some much needed skill, incision and creativity in a West Brom side renowned for valuing brawn over brains.
However, with Vitoria valuing Horta very highly, it is far from certain that West Brom will be able to strike a deal – despite the report claiming they will offer Horta a vastly increased salary for the season.
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