Manchester United scouted Benfica defender Antonio Silva during this week’s Champions League match between the Portuguese club and Paris Saint Germain.
According to The Mirror, the teenage star’s impressive display was the reason United sent scouts to watch the talented centre-back.
The 18-year-old is having a breakout season in Portugal and is rumoured to have caught Real Madrid’s attention.
Erik ten Hag wants to bolster his defence with a talented young player, and United are quite interested in Silva. According to the article, Silva appears to have a bright future in the game, and Benfica will reportedly not even consider selling him in January.
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However, his contract currently only has a £13 million release clause, which seems like a great deal for a guy with such a bright future. He may depart in the summer if the club’s asking price is met.
Benfica is reportedly attempting to negotiate to increase that sum. The club will attempt to tie the player to a new contract but Silva may prefer to ward off any new offer and look for a move elsewhere.
To lure a defender who has Madrid’s interest, it would appear that United may need to participate in the Champions League the next season. Because of his outstanding performance against elite clubs, he will probably be the subject of interest from scouts from all over the world.
It will be interesting to observe how Ten Hag reorganises his team during his second summer in charge, as well as how much money will be available to do so.
