Manchester United needs someone who is going to bring energy and something unique to their side. Plus, they require a strong backline that can hold their own and prevent unnecessary goals during the run of games. However, last season, it seemed as though they had some creativity in the midfield and some promise up top with Holland and Fernandes, but their backline was struggling.
Due to injuries, many defenders only saw action in a few games last season. This meant that other players, like Casemiro, had to step in and play in the back line to help the squad. Not only did that hurt their confidence, but it hurt their standings on the ladder as well. Now, getting more defenders during the off-season is one of the main goals of United heading into the next campaign. That’s why they have their sights set on a Benfica defender who can help prevent goals, distribute passes, and win 50/50 balls.
Manchester United to Sign Benfica Defender
Manchester United wanted to sign Silva at Benfica to potentially save money and avoid overspending if they went for Branthwaite. Despite Branthwaite being the hot young thing on the transfer market at the minute, having gotten recalled up for England’s camp and almost made it to the Olympics at such a young age, his price tag has matched his recent popularity. Plus, he did extremely well for Everton last year in the back line, showing why he is a consistent and reliable defender at just 20 years old.
So, instead of digging themselves a financial hole, Manchester United are considering getting an alternative — Antonio Silva from Benfica in the Portuguese league. Silva will play alongside another youngster who just signed for the Red Devils, Leny Yoro. Yoro is a professional French footballer who transferred from Lille to United, having made 46 appearances for Lille’s senior team — and he’s only 18 years old.
Antonio Silva is a 20-year-old footballer from Viseu, Portugal, who started his youth career at Penalva do Castelo. He soon made his way up the ranks, heading to Benfica in 2016. He gained valuable minutes for Benfica’s B team in 2022, and then quickly was scouted to play for the senior team, the same year. He has made 60 appearances for the club since he first went onto the pitch in 2022 — when he was only 19 years old.
Now, he is looking to make a move to Manchester United to help them next season.
Manchester United New Squad Next Year
United were hoping to sign Branthwaite — but multiple failed transfer and purchase attempts mean they may have to set their sights elsewhere. They have been successful in connecting with the Toffees to sign the talented defender, but are debating whether they should go for a third time or try another player in the transfer market. Everton are keen to hold onto the player – and rightfully so. He is one of the best defenders in England at the moment, so Everton will do well to keep their backline strong.
However, if they want to make money on the player, they could consider sending him to Bayern Munich or another club that can pay them the money they need to strike a good deal. In the meantime, they might look at Silva in Benfica. Despite having a nearly-$90 million release clause, United is still keen to sign the defender for the hefty price. Plus, Benfica is willing to negotiate and says they will be able to sell their defender for half the price if United can seal the deal.
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