Benfica will reportedly put 19-year-old Portuguese international Antonio Silva, a target for Manchester United, up for sale next year.
According to a report by O Jogo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Benfica might have to cash in on Antonio Silva next year. Their poor performance in the UEFA Champions League will have an adverse effect on their balance sheet. So, the 19-year-old defender, a target for Manchester United, might appear on the transfer list to help them balance their books.
Antonio Silva has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the world since breaking into the Benfica first team. He began his youth career at CF Os Repesenses before having a short stint at Viseu United. But the Portuguese international made considerable progress after moving to Benfica over half a dozen years ago.
The 19-year-old rose through the ranks at Benfica before making his first-team debut last season. Silva has since grown in stature at the Portuguese club, turning out over 50 times thus far while breaking into his national team. Meanwhile, the youngster’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs.
Widespread reports have linked the teenage sensation with European bigwigs like Real Madrid and Liverpool. But Manchester United have been the most serious suitor pursuing Silva’s signature ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window.
Manchester United will likely part ways with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof ahead of the 2024/25 season. In addition, Raphael Varane is on the wrong side of 30, with the Frenchman also having his fair share of fitness issues since moving to Old Trafford. So, it behoves the Red Devils to dip their toes in the market for a centre-back.
Antonio Silva has thus emerged as a viable target for Manchester United. The Premier League heavyweights now have a shot in the arm, with Benfica reportedly ready to cash in on the 19-year-old Portuguese international. The Portuguese giants were hoping to reach the UEFA Champions League knockout rounds.
But after making a poor start to their Champions League campaign, the Portuguese champions are in a spot of bother on the financial front. Silva is Benfica’s cash cow, meaning a sale in the 2024 summer transfer window is likely. But recent reports have claimed that he wants to join Real Madrid instead of Manchester United. So, a move to Old Trafford might not see the light of day.
