Benfica’s Antonio Silva is on Manchester United’s shortlist (Picture: Getty Images)
Manchester United are planning to make a big signing in central defence in 2024, with four names on their shortlist at the moment.
With first choice centre-backs Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez struggling to stay fit and doubts over the likes of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans at the highest level, the Red Devils are looking to strengthen the position.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said on his YouTube channel that it is not yet clear whether a move will come in January or the summer, depending on ‘opportunities and the budget’ but there will be big bigs in 2024.
The four names thought to be on United’s shortlist and currently being scouted are Goncalo Inacio, Antonio Silva, Edmond Tapsoba and Jean-Clair Todibo.
Sporting’s Inacio has also been linked with Real Madrid and looks certain to make a big move away from Portugal next year.
The 22-year-old has a €60m (£52.3m) release clause in his contract at Sporting so United, Real or any other club could pounce for that fee in January or the summer.
Goncalo Inacio has also been linked with Real Madrid (Picture: Getty Images)
Antonio Silva is an even younger Portuguese talent, with the 20-year-old breaking into the Benfica team last season and already winning six caps for his country.
Silva signed a new contract with Benfica last year which runs until 2027 and the Athletic report has a release clause of £88m.
Todibo and Tapsoba have both been linked with a move to Old Trafford in previous transfer windows and remain of interest to the struggling Premier League giants.
Tapsoba only signed a new contract with Bayer Leverkusen in September, so the 24-year-old would be an expensive option.
Spanish publication Sport reported over the summer that Nice would be willing to accept around €35-40m (£30-35m) for France international Todibo, making him the cheapest option of the four by some margin, if the Ligue 1 side would still do business at that level.
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