Manchester United revive interest in top Portuguese defender again

Manager Erik ten Hag is eager to add another centre-back to the squad.

Erik ten Hag
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Manchester United have completed the signing of defender Leny Yoro in a deal worth €62m plus an additional €8m in add-ons. However, manager Erik ten Hag is eager to add another centre-back to the squad.

Matthijs de Ligt has been a primary target, but the club is reluctant to meet Bayern Munich’s €50m valuation.

A potential move for Jarrad Branthwaite appears unlikely due to Everton’s firm stance on their €80m asking price.

United rekindle interest in Benfica defender

United have apparently identified Benfica defender Antonio Silva as an alternative to De Ligt if a deal with Bayern cannot be agreed, as per Manchester Evening News.

De Ligt has already agreed personal terms with United but a fee with his employers is yet to be shook on.

And now, as per reports from Portuguese daily O Jogo, United are considering a move for Benfica defender Antonio Silva.

The 20-year-old defender, who has a £84m release clause in his contract, has been on United’s radar and the club believes they can negotiate a much lower fee with Benfica.

It is reported the Portuguese club will be open to accepting an offer of around £42m for Silva.

Any potential deal for Silva would depend on United offloading a centre-back during this transfer window.

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