Simao ?

[Jayesh87]

Simao Sabrosa looks set to leave Benfica in the near future, the club have confirmed.

The Portuguese international was left out of Benfica's pre-season victory over Bordeaux on Saturday and, following the game, president Luis Felipe Vieira admitted Simao had been left out for a reason.

"The absence of Simao from the pitch is justified," said Vieira.

"In a few days the cause will be known."

Already Liverpool and Valencia are being tipped as the most likely suitors.

Both have been long-term admirers of the player and could very well be showing a renewed interest.

Coach Fernando Santos admitted he was told not to involve the midfielder.

"Simao has not played by order of the club," he added.

Spartak Moscow's Ukraine ace Maxim Kalinichenko is already being linked as a possible replacement.

[MrMichael]

From what I've seen in the last 12 months of him I can't say I'd pay a penny over

[Red_Polo]

I agree. Definitely not worth what Benfica seem to be asking for. I'd prefer we signed Pennant and put the savings toward buying a top striker.

[anfieldanfield]

Every time I've seen him play, he's been poor.

No thanks.

[Howard_lfc]

Every time I've seen him play, he's been poor.

No thanks.

In a word? Lightweight.

[kopdan]

I think he's a good player BUT I really like Pennant

[Finnish_Red]

Now that Duff went to barcodes, let him go to Chavs for a ludicrous fee and be their back-up winger.

Had his chance to join us, not really that interested where he ends up to be honest. As long as it's not us with the fee mentioned.

[pali]

can't see him joining the chavs, they've just had Kalou, Mikel and shevcenko who plays at the attacking position

[dww]

I think he is a class player, but I would like others on here worry about him being too lightweight. It would however be good to have an added goal scoring threat in the team.

My fear is that if we move for him it is because we can only afford one player and he can play in an advanced role alongside a more conventional forward.

[brendan]

Good technique and dead ball ability, scores a bit, but I don't really see him as having much more to his game than that.

That's because that IS all there is to his game.
Some would argue that it never did Beckham any harm, but I would agree that it's not the most scintillating rumour.

Although I wouldn't say no at the right price and Benitez seems DETERMINED not to start the season without signing at least one RM.

We'll be a laughing stock if we fail AGAIN.

Pennant is my tip, I think it will happen this week.

[kurtangle01]

someone called mike on www.ynwa.tv says it was on century tonight that simao was pulled out of the benfica training camp at liverpool's request. anyone else hear this?

[G_Man]

Hope it's not true, I've gone off the lad.

[kurtangle01]

Hope it's not true, I've gone off the lad.

it's probably rubbish mate so don't worry. i just wondered if the guy was genuine or not.

i think rafa has moved on although if the price was right...you never know!

[bobhorse]

i believe he was told not to attend the camp as he will be going to Valencia later this week to complete a move

[univofchicago]

i believe he was told not to attend the camp as he will be going to Valencia later this week to complete a move

Phew!! Thank god...

This thread almost gave me a heart attack...