Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes privately endorsing Antonio Silva as Manchester United target Benfica defender

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Benfica centre-back Antonio Silva, according to reports.

The 19-year-old broke into Benfica’s first team at the start of the season having impressed for the Portuguese club’s academy sides.

Silva’s impressive performances this term led to him being named in Portugal’s World Cup squad this week, even though he is still waiting for his first senior cap.

According to the Sunday Mirror, United are among a number of clubs who are keeping a close eye on Silva’s rise at Benfica, with Barcelona and Real Madrid also interested.

The report claims that both Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes ‘have spoken positively’ about Silva at United.

Erik ten Hag is likely to be in the market for a new central defender next summer, with reports this week claiming that the United manager is open to selling Harry Maguire.

The United captain has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford this season, with Ten Hag preferring Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as his centre-back pairing.

United had made a move for Ajax centre-back Jurrien Timber in the summer window but the Dutch club rejected multiple offers.

Reports also suggested that United are monitoring Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez as a potential replacement for David De Gea.

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