Estadio Deportivo has recently reported that Everton could end up signing Granada keeper Rui Silva when he becomes a free agent next summer. However, it is understood that the Toffees could face stiff competition from Atletico Madrid and some undisclosed Serie A clubs in pursuit of the Portuguese shot-stopper (via Estadio Deportivo).
Silva’s Brilliant Form In Spanish Football This Season
Silva’s current contract at the Nuevo Estadio de Los Cármenes expires at the end of this campaign, so he is currently free to talk to other clubs and come to a pre-contract agreement with them this month.
The Portuguese sensation is enjoying an impressive season with Granada after putting in a series of solid performances as Diego Martínez’s first-choice keeper. Silva has taken part in 25 matches for the Spanish club this term, conceding 31 goals and earning ten clean sheets across all fronts.
The 26-year-old is averaging 0.5 clearances and 8.8 long balls per game in La Liga and the UEFA Europa League this season. However, the Portuguese goalie’s preference to go long with ball-distribution has seen his pass completion rate drop to 57.4% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
What Will The Portuguese Keeper Bring To Merseyside?
Standing at 1.91m, Silva has got the length to stretch himself big and make some important saves for his team. He possesses outstanding reflexes and can pull a few quick dives to come to his side’s rescue when needed.
Plus, the Portuguese shot-stopper is often quick to sense the danger and can clear his lines when chased down by the opposition inside his half. He has established himself as a solid keeper in La Liga over the past few years and could prove to be a shrewd acquisition for Everton if Carlo Ancelotti can get him on board next summer.
Silva has got the skillset to be a success story in English football as he is a reliable presence at the back. However, the Portuguese talent lacks accuracy when passing the ball out from his goal, so he might need time to settle into Ancelotti’s brand of football at Goodison Park. At 26, Silva has got plenty of years left in him to play at a high level which the Toffees could look to capitalise on in the coming seasons.
Everton have currently got Jordan Pickford as their first-choice goal-keeping option while Robin Olsen serves as his back-up on the bench. Silva might be an upgrade over both of them due to his consistency in terms of his performances at the highest level week in week out. The fact that he will be available on a free transfer should make him a priority option for Ancelotti to consider at the end of this campaign.
