Exclusive: Benfica Starlet Leandro Santos Attracting Premier League Interest

Leandro Santos is turning heads in the Premier League.

The Benfica defender could be poised for a move to England this summer after showcasing his talents for the Portuguese club. 

SportsBoom sources understand the player is keen to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo by making the move to the Premier League.

The 19-year-old, who has already been capped at Portugal U20 level, has bags of potential and has been tipped to become one of the best right-backs in Europe in the next few years.

And it is understood that a number of Premier League clubs are tracking his progress at the club and weighing up the option of snapping up the full-back for around £5million before his price soars in the next few years.

Two unnamed Premier League clubs have sent scouts to watch the talented teenager in the Portuguese Liga and for Benfica B this season. 

ONE FOR THE FUTURE

Santos was thrown into first-team action back in February and played a starring role as he started in three successive clean sheet victories as Benfica kept up the pace with Sporting Lisbon in the title race.

And he was named as a substitute during the club’s Champions League games against AS Monaco and Barcelona with boss Bruno Lage wanting him to experience the atmosphere of a big Champions League night. 

Benfica would be open to selling the youngster if the price is right and would be willing to take him back on loan to aid his development next season. 

Alongside Cristiano, a number of Portuguese players have made their mark in the Premier League with the likes of Bernardo Silva, Nani, Bruno Fernandes, Ricardo Carvalho, Paulo Ferreira, Jose Fonte and Joao Cancelo all enjoying their time in the country.