Victor Lindelof is widely expected to be Manchester United’s next major transfer acquisition. The Benfica defender has been tipped to join United in a £38 million deal (Via Daily Star) once the transfer window reopens in a few days’ time. It would represent a massive outlay on a defender, but United seem to be betting on the prospect of enjoying almost a decade of service from the player. At just 22 years of age, Lindelof is already regarded as one of the bright young prospects in world football.
Benfica recently admitted that the Lindelof may end up leaving the club in January. However, the biggest hint about a possible move has come with the player signing on a fan’s Manchester United shirt (via The Sun). He also had a bright smile when presented with the shirt.
United are very keen on a top class centre defender to complement Eric Bailly. The youngster from Ivory Coast has been a success following his £30 million move in the summer. However, it is thought that Mourinho does not see the likes of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling as players who can complement the 22-year-old. United also seem to be keen on building a centre-back partnership that is reminiscent of the old days when Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic used to be a commanding presence at the back.
Lindelof has a contract with Benfica until the summer of 2020, and the Portuguese outfit did their best in order to persuade the player to stay at the club. However, the £38 million offer (via Daily Mirror) seems to have been irresistible for both club and the player. Benfica would be making a massive profit on the player secured for just a small training compensation figure of €60,000 in 2012. After spending three years in the Benfica B team, Lindelof was promoted to the senior team in the summer of 2015.
Since then, he has managed to lift the Primeira Liga title with Benfica whilst also earning a regular role with the Sweden national side. Lindelof has featured in 11 outings for Sweden since making his debut in March 2016.
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