Rumor Mongering: Reds Chase Not-Quite-Starlet Rafa Silva

With the signing of one 23-year-old attacking prospect on life-support, reports have emerged that Liverpool may be in for another: Braga attacking midfielder Rafa Silva.

The player's agent confirmed that United and Spurs had been monitoring the player last summer, but that the young attacker decided to remain at Braga, which proved wise, as he made 46 appearances across all competitions, bagging 11 goals and eight assists. He also was an integral member of the squad that ended Braga's 50 year drought without a cup win, playing all 120 minutes in the Portugese Cup win over Porto five days ago.

The player's agent has confirmed Silva is considering a move to England this summer, stating that "Rafa's style of play can help him adapt in the Premier Legaue and there ha[s] been interest from clubs in England," though he tempered same by assuring the rest of Europe that said interest was "[n]ot only in England, but from other countries too."

While he's not going to be the Next Ronaldo (TM), Silva has been tipped to eventually "be a leading figure for Portugal in the future," according to former Portuguese international Quim Machado.

The release clause is rumored to be 15 million pounds, and he is at least 50% owned by third-party ownership group Gestifute, which could prove a minor hurdle for the Reds.

For now, enjoy a highlight video with not the worst music I've ever heard in my life.