Marco Silva could block Benfica star joining Tottenham after missing out on manager’s job

Marco Silva is set to stand in the way of Benfica star Andreas Schjelderup's possible move to Tottenham this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

Schjelderup caught the eye of several suitors across Europe as he shone for Norway during their run to the World Cup quarter-final.

Tottenham are one of the clubs keen on a move as Roberto De Zerbi oversees an overhaul of his squad after they narrowly avoided relegation last season.

He is yet to bolster his attacking ranks, as defensive and midfield arrivals are prioritised, but Spurs are in the market for several new forwards in the coming months.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Spurs could struggle to agree a deal for Schjelderup as new Benfica boss Silva is not planning to agree to selling him this summer.

Tottenham were keen on hiring Silva before De Zerbi was appointed, according to The Athletic, and he could now come back to haunt the club just a few months later.

Marco Silva to block Spurs from Andreas Schjelderup move

Schjelderup is not set to sign a new contract with Benfica, with his current deal running to 2028, and an exit has seemed likely this summer.

He registered 11 goals and six assists in 46 games for the Primeira Liga side last season, then set up two goals against Brazil and scored against England at the World Cup.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "The new Benfica manager, Marco Silva, would ideally like to keep him, but I think they're probably bracing themselves for offers and interest in Schjelderup.

"I'm sure the player himself could be tempted by a move away to one of Europe's top leagues if that opportunity does arise as well."

Everton set to make Djed Spence approach as Spurs anticipate sale

While Tottenham have made several key signings so far this summer, they are also set to sell some first-team stars to garner more funds.

Spence's future is up in the air right now after his impressive World Cup showings for England.

He is set to fall down De Zerbi's pecking order for next season, with sources revealing to Football Insider that Everton could accelerate a move for Spence in the coming weeks as he moves closer to leaving Spurs.

Inter Milan are also eyeing a move, though, so the Toffees will have to move quickly to get a deal over the line.