Madrid tracking Benfica starlet

Benfica starlet Renato Sanches has become an “object of desire” for Real Madrid, according to AS.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign since making his senior debut in November, and the newspaper claims Los Blancos have shown an interest in the youngster, along with Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

However, the Eagles are reportedly keen to deter any potential suitors from the Portugal Under-19 international and have increased his release clause a third time to €80m, making him his country’s most expensive player.

Nonetheless, Benfica are likely to accept anything over €60m, a fee which would still constitute the most lucrative transfer in Portuguese football history, more so than Hulk, who joined Zenit St Petersburg for €55m from Porto in 2012.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone said of Renato after December’s 2-1 win against Benfica: “He’s doing very well and is a young man who has made ​​great strides.”

Tags Benfica Renato Sanches Transfers
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