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Manchester United are reportedly much more likely to step up their efforts to land Benfica defender Antonio Silva amid interest from other top European clubs.
It is believed that in the upcoming transfer window, strengthening the defensive department is one of United’s biggest priorities.
Raphael Varane’s departure was confirmed in May, and like the Frenchman, Jonny Evans’ contract also expires in a few weeks.
There is uncertainty over the long-term futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof and it is believed that both could be sold if United were presented with tempting offers.
The Red Devils have so far been linked with Jean-Clair Todiba (OGC Nice), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Leny Yoro (Lille), Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona) and Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen), only to name a few.
Another centre-back believed to be on United’s radar is Silva. A previous report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that Erik ten Hag’s side had made an approach to explore the possibility of doing a deal for the Benfica man across the line.
Benfica’s financial problems are well documented and Silva is one of the players they could part ways with in an effort to improve their books.
A €100m (£86m) transfer has been discussed, understood to be the value of the 20-year-old’s release clause.
Newspaper O Jogo (via SportWitness) now claim that United are not the only club chasing Silva. He is also attracting overtures from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
However, United are “more likely” to be the team to “step forward” to land the centre-back.
The publication also notes that Benfica expect Silva’s release clause to be activated or an offer close to the stated €100 million, even if that includes performance-related bonuses.
In the 2023/24 campaign, Silva made 50 appearances for the Eagles in all competitions. He helped his team keep 20 goals in that period, while also scoring two goals.
Silva has been selected in Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad and, having started five of the Selecao’s 10 qualifiers heading into the competition, stands a good chance of playing a prominent role in the back line.
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