Fabrizio Romano claims Man United are tracking centre-back ahead of January move

Manchester United are tracking a star centre-back ahead of making a possible move in January, claims transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Red Devils suffered their fourth defeat in the Premier League on Saturday as they succumbed to Roy Hodgson's Crystal Palace.

Man United fans fumed as they were denied a late penalty, with Erik ten Hag delivering a frank view on Marcus Rashford, who had coaching staff 'despairing' at his use of the ball.

Ten Hag's side currently occupy 10th place in the table and reinforcements could be made in a bid to turn their fortunes around.

According to Romano, Man United are keen on bolstering their defensive options, with the Dutch boss short of options following the injury to Lisandro Martinez, who has been ruled out for an 'extended period'.

It's claimed the club are keeping tabs on Benfica's Antonio Silva ahead of making an official approach in January when the transfer window reopens.

Antonio Silva in action for Benfica. Image: Getty

They 'keep following' the 19-year-old and have scouted him several times already.

"Another player United keep following and keep scouting is Antonio Silva from Benfica," said Romano.

“For sure they will add more players to that list, but everything depends on Maguire and whether he wants to continue to fight for his place."

Silva enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, having graduated from the club's youth academy.

He made 44 appearances in all competitions last season and has already featured in eight games this campaign.

However, an approach for the Portuguese defender depends on Harry Maguire's stance at Man United.

The England international was strongly linked with a move away from Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, but a deal failed to materialise.

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