Manchester United and Liverpool have been closely linked with Benfica attacking midfielder Anderson Talisca in the Portuguese press.

It all started with A Bola reporting that Jose Mourinho had placed a ‘reserve’ on Talisca and that talks between United and the Brazilian were going well.

Per the source, the Red Devils are prepared to offer €40 million for his services.

The report was followed up by O Jogo this time reporting that Liverpool had joined the race after rekindling a long-standing interest in the 1.91m tall star.

The latest development from Portugal comes from Talisca’s loan club Besiktas.

See More: 5 Facts Man United Fans Should Know About £35m target Anderson Talisca ‘Reserved’ By Jose Mourinho

A Bola report that Besiktas have the option to sign the 23-year-old for just €21 million due to a clause in the loan contract.

The Black Eagles have a €25 million release clause but have already paid €4 million in loan fees over the past two seasons – which is deducted from the fee.

The reigning Super Lig champions could therefore sign their star man on a permanent move for a fraction of the €40 million fee being quoted for United.

And there is another twist in the report as it claims Besiktas had an attempt to split the fee into six instalLments rejected by Benfica.

The Istanbul giants now aim to secure the transfer with a bank loan and could end up selling Talisca at a profit inside the same window for a profit.

Talisca has 16 goals and four assists for Besiktas this season and played a key role in winning the league title last term.

The powerful midfielder earned himself a call-up to the Brazil national team on the back of his impressive form including four Champions League goals.