Manchester United appears to be leading the charge in the pursuit of Benfica’s highly-rated defender, Antonio Silva, ahead of the summer transfer window. With Erik ten Hag seeking to bolster his defensive options, Silva has emerged as a prime target for the Red Devils, especially with uncertainties surrounding the futures of current center-backs Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, and Raphael Varane.
The 20-year-old Silva has made significant strides at Benfica this season, amassing 35 appearances and showcasing his talent on both domestic and international fronts with Portugal. United’s interest in Silva is further fueled by his £86 million release clause, providing a clear pathway for a potential transfer.
Gestifute, the agency representing Silva, has reportedly been contacted by United, signaling the club’s serious intent in securing the young defender’s services. Despite reported interest from Chelsea, United’s thorough scouting and knowledge of Silva’s abilities give them a competitive edge in negotiations.
However, Silva is not the sole center-back under United’s radar, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite also on their radar. The 21-year-old has impressed during his stint at Everton, prompting the club to place a hefty £100 million price tag on him to ward off potential suitors. As United continues to assess defensive options, their pursuit of Silva and Branthwaite underscores their commitment to strengthening their backline ahead of the new season.