“Manchester United in negotiations for Richard Rios from Benfica.”

Manchester United is poised to take a decisive step in the race for talented midfielder Richard Rios, with news that promises to shake up this summer’s transfer market. According to sources close to the situation, Benfica may accept a deal below their initial asking price, opening the door for a significant reinforcement at Old Trafford.

Richard Rios, the 25-year-old Colombian star, has shone as a true “jack-of-all-trades” in Benfica’s midfield. Although he has primarily been used by José Mourinho as a defensive midfielder, the player has shown an impressive ability to influence all phases of the game. With 10 goal contributions this season — five goals and five assists in 42 matches — Rios demonstrates that he is a key asset for the “Eagles.”

Standing at 1.85 meters tall, with a powerful physique and remarkable mobility, the Colombian international stands out particularly for his ability to win duels, a statistic in which he was unbeatable at last year’s Club World Cup, even as he represented Palmeiras, despite the Brazilian club’s early elimination. This top-level performance led to his transfer to Portugal for around £26 million, sparking interest from clubs in the Premier League and Serie A.

According to “Caught Offside,” Manchester United is now one of the frontrunners to secure the signing of Rios this summer. The midfielder is seen as an alternative to Manuel Ugarte, who has struggled to meet expectations since joining the English club in 2024 from Paris Saint-Germain. The major obstacle to signing Rios was the release clause set at £87 million, but well-informed sources suggest that an offer close to £39 million could be accepted by Benfica.

The scenario is clear: it is “highly unlikely” that Rios will remain in Lisbon after the summer, although the Portuguese club is aware that the player’s value could rise significantly if he excels at the World Cup representing Colombia. In addition to United, Fulham is said to have already made contact with the player’s representative, while Italian champions Napoli have held internal meetings to prepare an initial proposal.

Interestingly, all these teams value Rios at around £26 million, indicating that Benfica may be inflating the price of their most precious talent. However, if the figures drop closer to £26 million, it would be a golden opportunity for Manchester United to strengthen their midfield with a true South American “tank,” capable of providing the aggression and energy that is currently lacking.

At Old Trafford, the mission is clear: to revitalize a midfield that has been one of the team’s weaknesses, especially following Ugarte’s failure to take on the expected leading role. INEOS, the partner of the Red Devils, aims to make two signings this summer — one to replace Casemiro, whose contract expires in May, and another to elevate the midfield, bringing more strength and dynamism.

If the offer goes through, Richard Rios could be the player who transforms the heart of Michael Carrick‘s team, bringing a combative, tireless midfielder with the ability to dominate the midfield. The prospect of losing such a valuable player has Benfica considering their options, but for Manchester United, this could be the signing that changes the game towards a more successful season. The summer promises to be hot in the market, and Rios is the cherry on top for the Red Devils.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.