Manchester United open talks to sign Benfica and Portugal defender Antonio Silva
Antonio Silva is firmly on Manchester United’s radar (Picture: Getty)
Manchester United are in negotiations to sign Benfica star Antonio Silva and sent scouts to watch the defender against Portimonense last weekend.
The Red Devils are planning a major overhaul of the squad after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s partial takeover and the club are expected to prioritise strengthening at centre-back, with the likes of Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans set for the exit door at Old Trafford.
It’s understood Raphael Varane and former captain Harry Maguire could also be deemed surplus to requirements, as long as United are confident they can bring in quality to replace the experienced duo.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo and Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini have all been mooted as targets at the heart of defence and a new name has come to the fore in recent days.
According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, United have been keeping close tabs on Benfica centre-half Silva and already ‘know everything’ about the 20-year-old – from his strengths and weaknesses to his contractual situation.
United are also aware of Silva’s eye-watering ?100million (£85.5m) release clause, but that hasn’t stopped the club advancing with a possible move for the youngster.
It’s claimed the Premier League giants have established contact with Gestifute – the company that represents the defender – and watched the Portuga...
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