Marco Silva Close To Benfica Return, Liverpool Advance Iraola Talks

Fulham head coach Marco Silva is drawing closer to a return to Portugal, with Benfica confident of reaching an agreement to appoint him as their new manager.

Discussions between Marco Silva, 48, and Benfica have gathered momentum in recent days, and a deal is now understood to be within reach.

Silva’s contract at Fulham expires this month, although the Premier League club have yet to make an official announcement regarding his future. Fulham have offered the 48-year-old coach a contract extension, but he has not accepted the proposal.

Silva has earned widespread praise for his work at Craven Cottage, guiding the club to a 11th spot finish in the English Premier League.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are pressing ahead with plans to appoint a successor to sacked coach Arne Slot.

Former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the vacancy at Anfield, with talks between both parties understood to be at an advanced stage.

Liverpool are keen to complete the appointment as quickly as possible and believe Iraola’s attacking style fits the club’s footballing identity.

The recruitment process is being led by Richard Hughes, who worked closely with Iraola during their time together at Bournemouth.

Iraola is also keen to bring former Bournemouth assistant Tommy Elphick with him should he take charge. Elphick, a lifelong Liverpool supporter, has not yet been approached by the club but is believed to be open to the opportunity.

The former Bournemouth defender recently rejected the chance to become Bristol City manager as he considers his next move.