Portuguese starlet set to rebuff interest from United and Liverpool in favour of staying with boyhood club

Benfica's Portuguese defender Antonio Silva celebrates the equalizing goal scored by Benfica's Portuguese midfielder Joao Neves during the Portuguese league football match between Sporting CP and SL Benfica at the Jose Alvalade stadium in Lisbon on May 21, 2023. (Photo by CARLOS COSTA / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS COSTA/AFP via Getty Images)

Manchester United’s centre-back target Antonio Silva could reportedly opt against a move away from his current club, Benfica.

According to Record via Sport Witness, the 19-year-old is well aware of the interest he is garnering from the likes of United and Liverpool, but isn’t overly fazed by the prospect of a move to one of the Premier League giants.

Instead, Silva is keeping all his focus on Benfica and hopes to captain his boyhood club to success across his career. He is, however, tempted by the rumoured links with Real Madrid, and could change his mind if the 14-time European champions come calling.

United’s defence options

The Red Devils have devised a shortlist of centre-halves that they could pursue in either the winter or the summer, with Erik ten Hag keen to acquire a marquee signing after injuries have plagued his squad and – predominantly – the backline.

Goncalo Inacio is the latest name to be added, while Silva, Edmond Tapsoba and Jean-Clair Todibo are also being monitored. Jeremie Frimpong is also an option that they could look to add at fullback.

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