Could this Portugal star be the perfect fit for Stoke City?
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Mark Hughes has added flair to Stoke City’s squad during the past two summers, but after they fell short of the European places in 2015-16, could the Portugal squad offer the missing piece in the Potters’ jigsaw, in the shape of midfielder Rafa Silva?
The fleet-footed Silva netted 12 times last season for club side SC Braga in his native Portugal, as they finished fourth in the Primeira Liga and reached the last 16 of the Europa League.
Also a crucial provider for Os Arcebispos, the 23-year-old set up eight goals during the last campaign, and his skill and maturity are rumoured to have caught the eye of the Stoke gaffer.
With the Portuguese valued at £11.25m by Transfermarkt.co.uk, he could become one of the Potters’ more expensive acquisitions this summer.
However, with the diminutive midfield maestro set to star for the national side at Euro 2016, the former Fulham boss might be wise to get his credit card out before the player’s value is boosted by some dazzling displays in France.
Rafa looks likely to play a part tonight as Portugal face Iceland, with the former Feirense man 12/1 to net the opener and 4/1 to score anytime.
Portugal are 4/9 favourites for victory tonight, as Iceland occupy outsider status at 17/2 – and if the Selecao midfield can demolish the Nordic outfit in Saint-Etienne, then the 23-year-old will surely attract interest from other big-name clubs.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
