Manchester United have long been interested in Antonio Silva, and recent reports suggest they are now in active negotiations to secure his transfer. Last October, Jornal de Noticias revealed that the Red Devils were preparing a substantial offer to bring the Benfica central defender to Old Trafford.
By December 2023, O Jogo reported that Manchester United were willing to trigger Silva’s £85 million release clause. Earlier this month, the Portuguese outlet Record indicated that the young star might indeed be heading to Manchester.
Recently, Caught Offside reported that Manchester United have initiated talks to finalize the signing of Silva from Benfica. Other top clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal, have also shown interest in the 20-year-old center back, particularly because they can offer Champions League football. Real Madrid and PSG are monitoring the situation as well, but Silva is reportedly keen on joining a Premier League team.
Despite the high interest, most clubs are hesitant to meet the £85 million release clause. Silva, who played in 30 games during the last Liga Nos season, was instrumental in helping Benfica achieve 15 clean sheets. He has also earned nine caps for the Portuguese national team and has been included in Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad by coach Roberto Martinez.
Manchester United are in urgent need of reinforcing their defense. The question remains: should they invest £85 million to secure Antonio Silva’s talents?