Who is Antonio Silva? £87m Benfica wonderkid linked with Man Utd and Liverpool

Erik ten Hag’s new look Manchester United may have had a decent opening quarter of the 2022/23 season but many of the headlines have been dominated by transfer speculation and what is happening behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Red Devils continues to be the biggest talking point but there are plenty of names being linked with January or summer moves to the Premier League side. As one Portuguese superstar approaches the end of his illustrious career, United could very well be targeting the next big player from the Euro 2016-winning nation. Reports have linked Benfica wonderkid Antonio Silva with a move to English football’s top flight as he continues to impress domestically and in the Champions League.

Here is everything you need to know about the player including what is being reported, plus his chances of moving to United.

Who is Antonio Silva? Benfica wonderkid linked with Man Utd and Liverpool

Silva is an 18-year-old defender who plays for Benfica. The centre-back has been with the Eagles since 2016 when he joined their youth academy having previously been with Penalva do Castelo, Repesenses and Viseu United. He made a handful of appearances for Benfica B during the 2020/21 and 2021/22 seasons before establishing himself as a first-team regular this campaign.

Silva has made 11 appearances in all competitions this season and has started all four of Benfica’s Champions League group-stage matches so far. He was also named the Primeira Liga Defender of the Month for September. On the international stage, Silva has represented his native Portugal at Under 16, Under 17, Under 18, Under 19 and Under 21 level having made his debut for the senior team in September.

What is being reported about Man Utd’s interest in Antonio Silva and how much will he cost?

United were first linked with Silva last month but the most recent report comes from TeamTalk, who claim the Red Devils could face competition from Liverpool for the teenager’s signature. The publication also claims that the player has a €100 million (£87 million) release clause in his Benfica contract. Manchester City, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also mentioned as having an interest in the 18-year old.