Man Utd chasing Benfica transfer - and it's NOT Joao Neves

James Shearman

• Updated: 26 Jul 2024 09:56 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a move for Benfica defender Antonio Silva.

United had previously been linked with another one of Benfica's players - Joao Neves.

However, the midfielder is now close to joining Paris Saint-Germain in a €70 million deal.

READ MORE: Latest Man Utd transfer rumours

Instead, United have turned their attention to Silva, reports Portuguese publication O Jogo.

Silva is a highly-rated central defender who has been linked to a number of Europe's top clubs in the past.

He is expected to cost around €45 million, which is not a bad deal for a 20-year-old with both Champions League and international experience.

The Red Devils have already signed Leny Yoro for over £50m from Lille, so do they really need Silva?

Do Man Utd need Antonio Silva?

United have brought in Yoro for a substantial fee but that has not completely solved their defensive issues.

The Frenchman is the ideal replacement for his compatriot, Raphael Varane, who left at the end of his contract earlier this summer.

However, replacements alone are not enough, they need to strengthen their depth in the centre-back department.

Lisandro Martinez is a fine player but he has suffered multiple injury problems in his United career.

As have Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire, with the latter continuously linked with a move away.

So, there is definitely room for another player to compete with Erik ten Hag's existing options.

And, United will not find many better options than Silva, who boasts the ideal balance of calmness on the ball and aggression out of possession.