Liverpool transfer news: Reds transfer target won't leave in January

Liverpool target and defender Antonio Silva won't be leaving Benfica in January according to his manager Roger Schmidt. 

The young centre-back is one of the many defenders that has been linked with the Reds in recent weeks and months as he continues to sparkle in Portugal.

The 20-year-old has even made seven appearances for the Portuguese national team, with his impressive displays having attracted attention from Europe's elite clubs.

Liverpool are one of the teams currently monitoring Antonio Silva, alongside the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester United. In fact, the Reds have previously sent scouts to watch the youngster play, as well as his highly-rated teammate Joao Neves, according to 90min.

However, Benfica boss Schmidt has rebuffed suggestions that Silva could leave the club in the upcoming January transfer window, insisting that an exit will not be sanctioned by the club this winter.

Speaking in a press conference recently, Schmidt stated: "I talk to them [my players] every day, all of them. We're in the middle of the season, we have big goals with Benfica.

"Of course we're not going to let these players leave, we need them and they don't want to leave. There's no question about that."

Silva does have an £88m release clause in his current contract, meaning he would have to be allowed to leave Benfica should it be triggered.

However, Liverpool would be incredibly unlikely to splash such a vast sum on the young defender, especially given he would become the club's record signing as a result.

Another man linked with the Reds is Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP, the exciting 22-year-old also having a £52m release clause in his deal.

Liverpool have sent scouts to watch the left-footed centre-back in the past, but also face stiff competition for his signature from the likes of Arsenal, Newcastle and Madrid.