Richard Rios emerges as pragmatic solution to Old Trafford's defensive midfield crisis with 14 goal contributions this season
Manchester United have opened formal talks with Benfica over a €35m move for Richard Rios, the Colombian midfielder who has delivered 14 goals and assists this season. The 25-year-old has emerged as a priority target as United scramble to address their failing midfield before Casemiro's contract expires.
The Red Devils' approach for Rios signals a marked shift in transfer strategy. Gone are the days of chasing overpriced marquee names. Instead, United are targeting proven performers at sensible prices who can actually strengthen Erik ten Hag's struggling side.
United's midfield has become a glaring weakness this season. Casemiro's contract expires in the summer, ending what has become an increasingly painful decline for the Brazilian veteran. The 33-year-old's legs have gone, leaving gaping holes in front of United's defence week after week.
Making matters worse, Manuel Ugarte has flopped spectacularly since his big-money arrival. The Uruguayan was meant to be Casemiro's long-term successor but has failed to adapt to Premier League intensity. His struggles mean United effectively need two new midfielders, not one.
Enter Richard Rios. The Colombian has thrived at Benfica with eight goals and six assists across all competitions this season. Those numbers from a defensive midfielder showcase exactly what United have been missing - a player who can shield the defence whilst contributing in attack.
At €35m, Rios represents exceptional value in today's inflated market. Compare that to the astronomical fees United have wasted on underperforming stars in recent windows. This is precisely the type of sensible recruitment that successful clubs build their squads around.
United's recent transfer history reads like a cautionary tale. Antony for €95m. Sancho for €85m. Mount for €64m. All have failed to justify their fees. The Rios pursuit suggests United finally understand that value matters more than vanity.
Forest expect Elliot Anderson to join either Manchester United or Manchester City if he leaves this summer. A fee in the region of £100-120m is being demanded.
The contrast with United's other midfield target is stark. Nottingham Forest want £100-120m for Elliot Anderson, according to reporter Florian Plettenberg. Whilst Anderson is undoubtedly talented, that fee would consume United's entire budget.
Benfica have built their business model on developing and selling talent. They've turned this into an art form, regularly cashing in when European giants come calling. For €35m, they'll make a healthy profit on Rios whilst reinvesting in the next wave of talent.
Ten Hag desperately needs midfielders who can execute his high-pressing system. Rios offers exactly that - a mobile, technically sound player comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and launching attacks from deep.
Should United land both Rios and Anderson, Ten Hag could deploy them in a double pivot. Anderson's creative brilliance paired with Rios' defensive discipline would give United the balanced midfield they've lacked all season. This combination would allow Bruno Fernandes to push higher up the pitch where he's most dangerous.
The financial reality makes this unlikely. If United splash £100m-plus on Anderson, there's little chance they'll have €35m left for Rios. This forces a choice: one expensive wonderkid or multiple proven performers who address different weaknesses.
Rios' versatility offers Ten Hag options he currently lacks:
United's formal contact with Benfica suggests this deal could move quickly. The Portuguese giants rarely drag out negotiations once a fair price is agreed. With Casemiro's future uncertain and Ugarte failing to convince, United need midfield reinforcements before pre-season begins.
The bigger question is whether this pragmatic approach extends beyond Rios. If United genuinely have learned from past mistakes, they'll prioritise value signings who improve the team over headline-grabbing deals. For a club that desperately needs to close the gap on their rivals, €35m for a proven performer makes far more sense than another £100m gamble.
Manchester United are in formal talks with Benfica over a €35m transfer fee for Richard Rios. This represents good value in today's inflated transfer market.
Casemiro's contract expires this summer and his performances have declined significantly. Manuel Ugarte has also failed to adapt since his arrival, leaving United short in midfield.
Richard Rios has contributed 14 goals and assists across all competitions for Benfica this season, with 8 goals and 6 assists. These numbers showcase his ability to contribute both defensively and in attack.
MatchdayJosé Mourinho has deployed classic mind games ahead of the Lisbon derby, refusing to comment on referee João Pinheiro's appointment while claiming he only criticises officials after matches. The calculated 'no comment' puts subtle pressure on Pinheiro and could influence both match dynamics and betting markets in tomorrow's crucial fixture.
MatchdayJosé Mourinho has launched his trademark mind games ahead of Sunday's Lisbon derby, challenging Sporting manager Rui Amorim to reveal his starting XI first. The Benfica boss's playful provocation marks his return to the psychological warfare that defined his most successful spells, setting up a fascinating tactical and mental battle between two generations of Portuguese coaches.
Yes, at €35m Rios offers exceptional value compared to other targets like Elliot Anderson who would cost £100-120m. This represents United's shift toward more pragmatic recruitment.
SportSignals is an independent publication. Views expressed are our own.
