Benfica defender turns down massive Al-Hilal offer as he hopes to stay in Europe with Portuguese side ready to cash-in on his fine Club World Cup displays

Benfica defender Antonio Silva has rejected a lucrative offer from Al Hilal and would like to stay in Europe after impressing at the Club World Cup.

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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Saudi Pro League club had offered €7 million (£6m/$8m) to the Portuguese defender while an offer of €45m(£38m/$53m) had been made to Benfica, according to A Bola.

AFP
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Antonio Silva appeared in 46 games last season and had a top performance against Bayern in the Club World Cup. Italian club Juventus had expressed their interest in Silva in January, but a move did not materialise. Silva, however, would like to leave Benfica in the summer window and play for a top European club.
DID YOU KNOW?
Al-Hilal are close to signing AC Milan defender Theo Hernandez and are waiting to finish their Club World Cup campaign to complete the move for the defender.

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WHAT NEXT FOR SILVA AND AL HILAL?
Al-Hilal progressed to the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup thanks to their impressive 4-3 defeat of Manchester City. Having their approach rebuffed by quite a few players, Al Hilal will hope they can get a few deals over the line. As for Silva, he will hope to continue his growth by moving away from Benfica to a club in Europe.

WHAT HAPPENED?