Leny Yoro may have been signed against the odds but Manchester United still have plans of recruiting more than one centre-back this summer.
Their attempts at signing Jarrad Branthwaite have not panned out so far despite two bids. A failed takeover raised hopes of a potential third bid but Everton are ready to offer the Englishman a new contract to end this saga for now.
Acquiring Matthijs de Ligt was supposed to be the easiest of the three as the Dutchman had agreed on personal terms and was keen on reuniting with Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils have so far struggled to match Bayern Munich’s valuation with the Netherlands international growing increasingly agitated with his club’s stance.
United eyeing another CB
If problems continue to persist with both deals, United could move on to Antonio Silva of Benfica as per Football Transfers. The Portuguese international’s name has long been linked with the 20-time English league champions who have regularly scouted the defender.
His release clause of €100 million meant no deal was likely this window but that price has come down following a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign.
The 20-year-old is equally adept on both the left and right side of defence, something that would help the Old Trafford side who are looking at a backup for Lisandro Martinez.
Last season, both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof struggled in the Argentine’s absence and a player more comfortable with his left foot is what Ten Hag wants, and hence the interest in Branthwaite and now, Silva.
The Benfica ace is represented by super agent Jorge Mendes, also Yoro’s agent, and United have great relations with him. The agent is also keen on taking Silva somewhere more glamorous.
Antonio Silva the target
“Agent Jorge Mendes remains looking to get Silva a move from Benfica, and there are some among Man Utd’s recruitment who admire the fact that he can play both sides of defence and typically on the left, where he can deputise for Lisandro Martinez.
“Benfica have previously demanded the defender’s €100m release clause to be met in full but it’s believed it would now be considerably below that.”
Benfica are unlikely to sanction the sale of both Joao Neves, a former United target who seems to be heading to Paris Saint-Germain, and Silva in the same window.
The Red Devils are likely to try again for both De Ligt and Branthwaite while hoping player sales will occur by then, handing them the chance to improve their bid considerably.
Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.
