Manchester United considering cut-price move for Portugal star as cheap alternative to Jarrad Branthwaite - Reports
Manchester United have reportedly identified an alternative to long-term target Jarrad Branthwaite. They are interested in signing Portuguese centre-back Antonio Silva from Benfica.
The Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite over the last few months. However, the Toffees are likely to demand around £77 million for their star defender, as per Goal. This has put a dent in United's pursuit of the Englishman this summer.
As per O Jogo (via Centregoals), Manchester United have now identified Antonio Silva as an alternative to Brantwaite. The Portuguese centre-back's contract with Benfica expires in 2027 and it has a release clause worth £84 million. However, as per the report, the Portuguese side could be open to selling him for just above half that price - £42 million.
Silva came through Benfica's academy and has made 94 senior appearances for them so far. He was also part of Portugal's squad for Euro 2024 and made two appearances as they crashed out in the quarter-finals against France.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are looking for defensive reinforcements this summer after Raphael Varane left as a free agent. They have already signed Leny Yoro from LOSC Lille.
Harry Maguire asserts his future is at Manchester United
The Red Devils are looking for an overhaul under INEOS, who bought a minority stake in the club earlier this year. Many players have been linked with a move away this summer, including Harry Maguire.
However, the defender recently said that he hasn't heard anything regarding a potential exit from Manchester United. He said unless the club ask him to leave, he'll fight for his place and trophies at the club, saying (via Sky Sports):
"Unless the club tell me I'm up for sale or I'm not wanted there anymore.
"Everything I've heard and the action I've been shown from the club, I'm part of the future and it is time to crack on and make this club successful again, challenging for the big trophies. That's what this club demands."
Maguire has had a tough time at Manchester United since his move from Leicester City in 2019 for a still world-record fee for a defender of £80 million. He's made 206 appearances but has often faced criticism. He was also stripped of captaincy last summer.
However, Maguire looked to find some form in the 2023-24 campaign but an injury towards the end of the season derailed his season. He also missed the UEFA Euro 2024 with England.