Newcastle United have reportedly been forced to put their interest in Benfica midfielder Rafa Silva on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Steve Bruce is understood to have identified Silva as one of his top transfer targets for when the window reopens, having been impressed with his performances this season.

The 26-year-old has made 25 appearances across all competitions this term, scoring nine goals and creating six more.

The Daily Mail reports that Benfica want £25m for Silva, but that Newcastle are only willing to offer £15m.

However, the Magpies have put all of their transfer plans on hold due to concerns that their budget will be wiped out by the coronavirus lockdown, which has brought all football to an indefinite standstill.

Newcastle still owe sizeable instalments on a number of transfer deals made last summer, and those will reportedly take precedence over any new signings.

Silva, who has featured mainly as a left midfielder this season, is contracted to Benfica until 2024.