Erik ten Hag faces crucial decision as Man Utd gets 'half-price discount'

Manchester United have been put on red alert for Benfica's Antonio Silva as they attempt to add another central defender to their ranks this summer.

The Red Devils have already added Leny Yoro in a transfer worth up to £58.7million but still have plans to improve their backline. A deal has not come easy however.

Erik ten Hag's side have seen two bids turned down for Jarrod Branthwaite by Everton. The Toffees have been steadfast in their belief that the England international should command a fee in the region of £70m.

United have also been credited with a move for Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt but an agreement is yet to be made between the European giants.

Bayern would likely suffer a significant loss on the Dutchman they signed for £68m in 2022. It is said a deal worth £42m could be enough to persuade the Bundesliga runners-up and the club's honorary president, Uli Hoeness has admitted a defender could leave.

"It's possible that a defender will leave," the Bayern chief told Sky Germany. "I would have no problem if [De Ligt] stays." Hoeness, however, then expressed his desire for De Ligt's team-mate, Dayot Upamecano, to stay. "Personally, I would not sell Upamecano."

It appears United could have found another option for a similar fee in Silva. The 20-year-old defender has a release clause of £84m but reports in Portugal suggest he could be available for half as much.

That has left United optimistic over negotiating a deal, even though a bid is yet to be forthcoming for Silva. It will leave the club with a decision over where to spend a modest transfer budget that will be boosted by player sales.

Speaking about a possible move during the season, Silva appeared unflustered. "I don't know how next season will be, but my focus at the moment, is on Benfica," he said.

"I am under contract [until 2027] and I trust my dad a lot, he has his say in most things and I also believe in my agent, they're the ones that take care of my life. And I just want to be focussed on Benfica. I feel very valued here at the club and what will happen, will happen."