Chelsea ready to activate release clause of 20-year-old United centre-back target in January swoop

Chelsea have kickstarted their pursuit of Manchester United-linked defender Antonio Silva.

The Benfica starlet is being targeted by the Blues as Todd Boehly looks to bolster Mauricio Pochettino’s backline for the second half of the campaign, which they’ll be hoping goes significantly better than the first.

Silva, 20, has cemented his place in the squad of boyhood club Benfica since progressing through the youth ranks to the senior setup last term. His form has seen him earn seven Portugal caps and should his development continue on the upward trajectory it’s on, he’ll likely feature for his nation at this year’s Euro 2024 tournament.

Silva could be heading to Stamford Bridge

United were believed to hold longstanding interest in the talent but given that his release clause stands at £87 million, there’s little to no chance of a bid being sent Benfica’s way anytime soon.

As well as that, Chelsea are hoping to complete their acquisition of Silva this month and have reportedly had a bid of £52m + Armando Broja rebuffed (as per The Sun), so must improve their proposal over the coming days.

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