Man Utd are 'preparing an offer' for £86m defender after positive scouting reports

Manchester United are already lining up potential new recruits for the end of the season and one of the main priorities is adding to the backline. A number of defenders have been linked with summer exits as either free agents or sales to fund future purchases.

United are headed for a busy window as they assess which players are going to be placed on the chopping block. Jonny Evans and Raphaël Varane are both into the final months of their contracts, while Victor Lindelöf's deal has been extended through to 2025, to give them the best chance of securing some cash through a transfer.

Harry Maguire's future at Old Trafford is also a grey area as Erik ten Hag continues to change his mind on whether offers will be listened to for the England international this summer.

As exits loom, United are monitoring new targets and considering moves for the end of the season. The Red Devils have been linked to a number of high profile defenders but one man in particular who has caught their eye is Benfica's António Silva.

According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, relayed via Sport Witness, United have been scouting the 20-year-old across 'many contests' for club and country, and now apparently 'know everything' about him. The report claims that the Reds 'are happy' with what they have found out and have contacted the player's agency to 'prepare an offer' ahead of the summer window.

It is unclear how much United are willing to spend on their attempt to sign Silva, but Benfica have him tied to the club with a €100 million (£86m) release clause. Silva is said to be getting 'special attention' from United as they prioritise a defensive reshuffle. Atalanta's Giorgio Svalcini and Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton are also on the radar, but are behind Silva in the club's priority list.