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Manchester United have reportedly been handed a boost in signing Benfica’s promising defender, Antonio Silva, as the summer transfer window approaches. The Premier League giants have been monitoring Silva, who is high on their list for a new centre-back.
According to Record (page 8), Silva, who has a €100 million release clause in his Benfica contract, might be available for a lower fee, with negotiations expected to take place later this year. Benfica, looking to maintain financial stability, is open to selling Silva, continuing their trend of making significant sales each summer.
This strategy saw Darwin Nunez move to Liverpool in 2022 and Goncalo Ramos join Paris Saint-Germain last season, despite both having €100m release clauses. Ramos’s move, in particular, was finalized for €80m under a loan with an obligation to buy agreement.
With Benfica’s willingness to negotiate, United might secure Silva’s signature for between €70-80m. Silva, just 20 years old, has been impressive, boasting a pass completion rate of 93% this season. Additionally, his defensive stats are noteworthy, with a 67% duel win rate, 2.4 tackles, 6.2 ball recoveries, and 3.4 clearances per game in the Primeira Liga.
These performances make Silva an attractive prospect for Manchester United, who are eager to fend off competition from other European clubs. With Jorge Mendes representing Silva, United’s strong relationship with the agent could prove beneficial in the negotiation process.
