Manchester United will have to break the release clause of Victor Lindelof if they want to sign him in January, suggested Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira.
The 22-year old central defender is largely linked with a move to Old Trafford in the recent weeks as Jose Mourinho is keen to add a quality player in the central defense for the reminder of the season.
Manchester United have suffered a lot due to their poor defence as they were quickly ruled off from title challenge as they left way behind their regular title rivals Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal. This has led to Jose Mourinho scout Lindelof extensively as United scouts were present for over three weeks to check on the talented defender during November and December.
However, with the current form of Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo, Manchester United have relatively cooled off their interest in the Swedish defender. But still the Red Devils are expected to make a bid for the talented young centre-back.
Benfica are not keen to let him go on cheap as they are demanding a massive £37m to sell him. Asked about a possible deal with United, Vieira told A Bola: “Lindelof is a Benfica player with a contract which contains a termination clause. Let’s wait.”
Despite not knowing the exact details in the Swede’s contract, Portuguese media claim that it could be around £37m. The 22-year old has been left out of the Benfica squad in their 4-0 win over Vizela on Tuesday night, having already missed the 1-0 win against Ferreira in the competition last week.
With the incredible price tag put on Lindelof, it remains to be seen whether Jose Mourinho would force a move for the young defender. Eric Bailly will not be available for the next few weeks as he is set to participate in the African cup of nations which could prompt Manchester United to make a move in the coming days.