Manchester United have made contact over a deal to sign a highly-rated Champions League midfielder this summer, according to reports.
The Red Devils are in the market to bolster their midfield options ahead of the new season, and they are prioritising Premier League-proven stars to replace the outgoing Casemiro and expected departure of Manuel Ugarte.
However, their scouting department and options for a potential deal are not restricted to just the Premier League at this stage, and it has now emerged that the club have made contact with a top Champions League club about bringing one of their biggest stars to Old Trafford.
Richard Rios
According to AS Colombia, Man Utd have expressed a formal interest in Benfica midfield star Richard Rios ahead of the summer window.
The Colombia international, who has been described as a 'freak athlete', joined the Portuguese giants last summer following the Club World Cup, and signed a long-term deal in Lisbon which included a €100m (£87m) release clause.
His performances this season have been hot and cold, but Benfica are understood to be happy so far, and Jose Mourinho sees the 25-year-old as a key member of his squad at the Estadio Da Luz for next season.
It's understood that the player is not looking to leave Benfica, and he is very happy at the club due to the support he has received from the fans, manager and board. Benfica, meanwhile, are also not looking to sell, and have no intention of letting him move on unless they receive an offer they simply can't refuse.
The holding midfielder has registered five goals and five assists in 41 appearances this season, and several other European clubs are keen, including the likes of Fulham, Napoli, Inter Milan, and Roma.
Man Utd Must Be Open to All Midfield Options
Michael Carrick
While a new midfield is being targeted, and the Premier League is believed to be seen as a priority to target, the club would be silly to limit themselves to just players from that league.
There are top players all across the world, playing in different leagues, and Man Utd would be restricting themselves for no reason whatsoever by not looking everywhere at options to strengthen the squad.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to rate the potential signing of Rios at Old Trafford, and this was its response:
Rating: 7/10
Richard Ríos offers strong ball-winning, athleticism, and versatility across midfield
Progressive passer with solid output (5G/6A season)
Still raw tactically; discipline (cards) a concern
Not yet elite/consistent enough for immediate Man Utd starting role
Good upside, but more of a rotation/development signing
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