Early-summer blow for Leeds rivals as Marco Silva ‘to join’ Benfica | OneFootball

Leeds United’s Premier League rivals Fulham could face an early-summer setback, with Marco Silva reported to be on the verge of leaving for Benfica. talkSPORT reports that a verbal agreement is in place for the Portuguese coach to take charge in Lisbon this summer.

Leeds finished 14th on their top-flight return, five points behind Fulham in 11th, and the sides shared one win each. They will hope to close that gap next season.

Silva’s future has been uncertain for months, with his contract up this summer. Craven Cottage chiefs have pushed to keep him. The reported Benfica offer is worth about £four million per year, roughly half of the £eight million a year on the table at Fulham.

Benfica are seeking a successor to Real Madrid-bound Jose Mourinho, and a return to Silva’s home city plus the lure of domestic trophies and the Champions League are viewed as attractions. Fulham are awaiting formal communication from Silva on whether he wants to leave London.

Appointed after relegation in 2021, Silva led Fulham straight back via the Championship title. In each of the four Premier League campaigns since, they have finished between 10th and 13th.

Fulham also face uncertainty over Harry Wilson, who is out of contract this summer and yet to agree new terms. The winger delivered 10 goals and seven assists in 36 league appearances, his best season at Craven Cottage. He is expected to attract suitors and Leeds are not likely to have withdrawn interest.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk