Manchester United send scouts to assess one of INEOS’ three transfer plans

According to a report, Manchester United sent scouts to Benfica’s Estádio da Luz over the weekend to gather more information on centre-back Antonio Silva.

With United reportedly preparing to sell over ten senior players this summer, the Premier League side’s defence is expected to undergo rapid evolution in the coming transfer windows.

Victor Lindelof and Raphaël Varane are among the names expected to leave the club, with the long-term futures of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans also unclear – it is said that INEOS plan to sign a striker, centre-back, and right-back this summer.

Read More: Manchester United set reduced Antony transfer price as Sir Jim Ratcliffe clarifies situation

Of the four defenders mentioned, Lindelöf has been used firmly as a squad player this season, deployed as a backup left-back in the wake of United’s injury crisis.

Meanwhile, Varane came under fire after United’s 2-1 loss to Fulham last Saturday, and Evans and Maguire are now 30 and 36 years old.

As a result, United are desperate to bring in a central defender this summer, with Silva one of the names being considered by the club.

WATCH HERE: Top 5 Ratcliffe Quotes! | Ten Hag’s Transfer Mistake! | What The Devil? Ep 05

Boasting a 93% pass accuracy in the league this season, as well as demonstrating exceptional availability in missing just two league games this season, Silva, 20, ticks several of the criteria United are looking for in their next defensive recruitment.

And now, HITC has confirmed that United have sent a scout to watch Silva during Benfica’s 4-0 Portuguese Primeira Liga win over Portimonense on Sunday.

Despite his young age, Silva has already accumulated 51 Portuguese Liga starts for Benfica, as well as gathering considerable minutes in both the Champions and Europa League.