Man Utd confirms the singing ‘number one’ transfer target with €100m release clause as Ruben Amorim plans to replace Raphael Varane this January.

Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on their main transfer target for next summer as they look to address ongoing issues in defence. Despite their attacking struggles—scoring only 16 goals in 13 Premier League matches, one of the lowest in the league—the club’s focus appears to be strengthening the backline. Injuries have taken a toll, particularly the long-term absence of Lisandro Martinez, which has forced Harry Maguire back into regular action despite previously being out of favour. Jonny Evans, now 35 and signed on a short-term deal, has also seen more playing time than Raphael Varane, highlighting the club’s defensive instability.

Amid this situation, Manchester United are believed to be targeting Benfica’s highly rated centre-back Antonio Silva as their top priority for the next transfer window. The 20-year-old defender, who has already made a strong impression at both club and international levels, has a release clause of €100 million (£86.7 million). Reports suggest that United are already exploring the possibility of negotiating a move, with Benfica expecting to lose him next summer despite his contract running until 2027. Silva has already amassed 61 appearances for Benfica and earned seven caps for Portugal, proving his reliability and maturity far beyond his age.

In addition to Silva, United are also keeping a close eye on Gonçalo Inácio from Sporting CP. The 22-year-old Portuguese defender has emerged as a potential successor to Harry Maguire and is reportedly available for a more modest fee of £42.9 million, thanks to a release clause in his recently signed contract. However, United are not alone in this pursuit, with Liverpool also expressing interest as they search for a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.

With both players fitting the profile of what Erik ten Hag wants in a modern defender—youthful, technically sound, and tactically aware—Manchester United’s defensive overhaul is clearly beginning to take shape ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.