Benfica’s Richard Rios against Real Madrid (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Manchester United have reportedly made formal contact with Benfica midfielder Richard Rios regarding a possible transfer.
The Colombian international has distinguished himself during his time in Portugal, and is being looked at as a potential successor to Casemiro in Manchester United’s midfield.
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The Red Devils could end up paying around 35 million euros for Rios, which is not a bad amount in this market, according to a report in Fichajes newspaper.
While Casemiro is nearing the end of his contract, Manuel Ugarte has been a huge failure during his time at Old Trafford, and there is no doubt that United will be keen to invest in a new midfield signing.
That could mean MUFC realistically need multiple new additions in that area of the team.
Are Manchester United preparing to make multiple midfield moves?
Rios is the latest name to be linked with United and would be one of the cheaper options given recent transfer rumors.
See below. Florian Plettenberg is among the reporters claiming Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson is United’s top target, but he could cost more than £100m…
If United can win the race for a world-class talent like Anderson, there will be no more left to spend, so a cheaper option like Rios could be ideal.
The 25-year-old may not be the glamorous name many Red Devils supporters would like, but he is a solid defensive midfield player and could continue to contribute.
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Rios has an impressive record this season with eight goals and six assists in all competitions for club and country, according to WhoScored statistics.
Benfica often let go of their best players when they receive a big enough offer, but one imagines Rios wants to test himself in a more competitive league.
