Portuguese giants Benfica are in talks to land US Under-20 star Freddy Adu from Real Salt Lake, but are also unwilling to spill any beans until the situation has been resolved.

Eagles press officer Roberto Maia would only express to American Soccer Daily that the club policy is to refrain from commenting about ongoing transfer negotiations.

Adu did not participate in a weekend friendly win over Everton, but is expected to be on hand for Tuesday's exhibition with Boca Juniors.

Various reports in the States have the deal either nearly completed or completely broken off because of the MLS asking price, reputed to be in the $7.5 million neighborhood.

Adu has also recently been linked with the likes of Celtic and Tottenham, but each would face a work permit tangle with the UK Home Office.

The 18-year old, a FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Ball finalist, has notched 12 goals and 19 assists in 98 career MLS matches. He has previously trained with Manchester United, and was the subject of interest from Serie A champs Inter Milan as far back as the age of 12.

UPDATE: The New York Times reported that Benfica have offered MLS $4 million - a little over half of what the league would seemingly require for Adu's transfer.

Later, reports surfaced that the Reds actually have had an offer of $2.5 million accepted by MLS, and that the teen phenom is currently aiming for better personal terms before agreeing to the move.