Benfica boss Marco Silva has given a comprehensive response to the speculation over the future of Andreas Schjelderup, who continues to be heavily linked with a move to Tottenham.
While Savinho remains Spurs’ top winger target heading into the final few weeks of the transfer window, Tottenham are also studying alternatives to the Man City man, in the event they do not get him.
Schjelderup has been heavily linked with a move to N17 over the last month on the back of his outstanding performances for Norway at the World Cup.
The 22-year-old, who got a goal and four assists in North America, has linked up with the Benfica squad ahead of the new season, and his manager has now shed light on what the future holds for the player.
Marco Silva sees Tottenham target Andreas Schjelderup as ‘fundamental’ to his plans
There have been continued suggestions that Benfica have failed in their efforts to tie Schjelderup to a new contract, forcing them to listen to offers for their star man, who has just two years left on his deal.
Spurs have reportedly offered €45m (£38.8m) upfront plus a further €10m (£8.6m) in bonuses for the pacy winger, totalling a €55m bid (£47.4m).
While Marco Silva stopped short of ruling out a sale of the pacy winger, he made it clear that the Norwegian is a key part of his plans at Estadio da Luz.
Speaking ahead of Benfica’s Europa League qualifier against Hearts, the former Fulham boss told A Bola: “I understand why there is so much talk about Andreas. First, because he has quality. Benfica made public the possible renewal and the offer he has. From the moment that became public, it’s understandable there are conversations.
“Because of the quality he has, because of the last five months of last season and because of the excellent World Cup he had… I think by praising him like this I’ve already answered whether he is fundamental to me or not.
“For the way we want to play, wide players are fundamental. He has very specific characteristics to face low blocks and is capable of doing something different against teams that defend well. We’re going to face plenty of those in the Portuguese league. Andreas is a player I believe in a lot and he is different.”
Silva claims Schjelderup is fully focused on Benfica
Some sources have suggested in recent weeks that Schjelderup wants a new challenge away from Benfica for the upcoming season after spending two and a half years in Lisbon.
However, Silva made it clear that the player is fully focused on the Portuguese club’s upcoming matches despite the ongoing rumours about his future.
When asked if the speculation has disrupted Schjelderup’s focus, the 49-year-old responded: “He has been working very well, he is fully committed, and he is a great lad, always happy in his day-to-day work.
“I only have positive things to say about him. Our objective is to get the best out of him and help him improve every day so he can help the team. I’m certain he will.”