Manchester United revive interest in Benfica defender

Transfer planning is in full swing at Manchester United now.

Rather than focusing on huge name signings, there is a shift towards players who are up and coming.

United’s priority position to strengthen is midfield, but the defence has always raised questions in recent weeks.

Luke Shaw remains a reliable presence when fit, and he has been injury free all season.

At the age of 30, there is a growing sense that United need to start thinking beyond him.

Tyrell Malacia’s situation add to a new level of uncertainty, with the Dutchman struggling for minutes and reportedly will leave the club at the end of the season as a result.

All of that has now pushed United to look elsewhere, and one name is standing out.

Samuel Dahl has re-emerged on the club’s radar, with the Benfica left0back being closely monitored ahead of the summer, as reported by Record and relayed by Sport Witness.

Dahl joined AS Roma in 2024 from Swedish side Djurgardens IF.

Game time proved hard to come by in Italy, with just three appearances to his name before Roma decided to send him out on loan to Benfica in January 2025, a deal that later became permanent.

That decision looks to have paid off, as Samuel Dahl has found his football in Portugal, showing the kind of development that initially attracted interest from top clubs.

United were among those watching even before his Roma switch, and according to Record, their scouts have followed him closely this season, attending over ten of his matches.

The feedback coming back to Old Trafford has been positive, with his physical strength and ability to slot into different roles across the pitch standing out.

The adaptability could be key for a United side that has lacked consistency in wide areas.

Dahl is under contract at Benfica until 2029, which gives the Portuguese side control over his future, although no indication has yet been given regarding a potential asking price.

This is less about a headline signing and more about building a squad that can evolve.