Manchester United are reportedly tracking Benfica midfielder Richard Rios as part of a summer midfield overhaul, with Fulham and Napoli also in contention for the 25-year-old. According to reports from Sport Witness and CaughtOffside, United have made contact regarding the Colombian international, who joined the Portuguese side from Palmeiras for €30 million in July 2025. While Rios is protected by a €100 million (£87m) release clause, Benfica are understood to be open to negotiations for a fee in the region of €45 million (£39m) despite his contract running through June 2030.
Benfica's valuation and the Portuguese market
As first reported by L'Equipe and corroborated by Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Benfica’s hierarchy is weighing the timing of a sale, with some internal voices advocating to hold the player until after the 2026 World Cup. However, sources via CaughtOffside suggest it is "highly unlikely" Rios remains in Lisbon beyond the current campaign following a debut season marked by recurring injury problems. Manager Jose Mourinho is said to value Rios' technical profile, but the club’s established financial model—buying talent for moderate sums and selling at a significant premium—makes a deal near the €45 million mark feasible. This valuation reflects a modest profit on their initial investment rather than the full execution of the release clause, a tactic previously seen with the record-breaking sale of Enzo Fernández to Chelsea.
United’s midfield transition under Michael Carrick
The interest in Rios aligns with a broader tactical reset at Old Trafford under head coach Michael Carrick. With veteran Casemiro expected to depart and Manuel Ugarte’s future under scrutiny, United require a high-intensity, press-resistant presence to anchor their central transitions. Unlike more expensive targets like Adam Wharton, Rios offers an established physical profile tested in the high-stakes environment of the Copa America. Internal discussions at United, as reported by TEAMtalk, suggest the club may pursue one "statement" signing alongside a secondary addition to shore up squad depth. At an anticipated £39 million, Rios serves as a cost-effective alternative to €100 million-rated options, fitting the profile of a versatile ball-carrier capable of competing for a starting role in a refreshed three-man midfield. Scouts from Napoli have also been present at recent Benfica fixtures, indicating that competition for his signature will intensify before the window opens.