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Richard Rios: Benfica hand Man United golden opportunity to land long-term target
TL;DR
Manchester United is eyeing a midfield rebuild this summer, focusing on replacing Casemiro and potentially moving on from Manuel Ugarte. Benfica has provided a golden opportunity for United to secure a long-term target.
Key points
- Manchester United plans a midfield rebuild this summer
- Casemiro's replacement is a priority for the team
- Benfica has provided an opportunity for United
- Manchester United is linked with top midfielders
Manchester UnitedBenficaCasemiroManuel Ugarte
Richard Rios: Benfica hand Man United golden opportunity to land long-term target
Manchester United are plotting a midfield rebuild this summer.
The need to replace Casemiro and move on exit-linked Manuel Ugarte, with quality central midfielders, sits at the heart of those plans.
Consequently, with those transfer ambitions well established, it is little surprise the 20-time English champions find themselves linked with some of the finest midfielders in the game.
Richard Rios
One such midfielder is Benfica’s Richard Rios. Indeed, Rios has long been tracked by the Red Devils. Ever since his Palmeiras days, his name has been constantly linked with a move to Old Trafford, and it was always easy to see why.
His unyielding work ethic, relentless stamina, and fierce competitive spirit have clearly caught the eye of Manchester United’s scouts. After all, Rios is a warrior on the pitch; he plays with enormous passion, constantly covering long distances, rarely giving up on 50/50s, and all the while pressing aggressively and winning the ball back from the opposition.
Back then, in summer 2025, after a brilliant Club World Cup, many expected United to swoop and bring him to Europe themselves, but that never materialised.
Instead, it was Benfica who ultimately won the race. He endured a slow start in Portugal, yet gradually found his feet and has since emerged as one of their more reliable performers, playing a key role in keeping Jose Mourinho’s side unbeaten in the league.
Q&A
What midfielders are Manchester United targeting this summer?
Manchester United is linked with several top midfielders as part of their summer rebuild plans.
Why does Manchester United need to replace Casemiro?
Casemiro's replacement is necessary due to his declining performance and the need for a more dynamic midfield.
Who is Richard Rios and why is he a target for Manchester United?
Richard Rios is a midfielder linked with Manchester United, seen as a potential long-term solution for their midfield needs.
What are the implications of Manuel Ugarte's potential exit for Manchester United?
If Manuel Ugarte exits, it will further intensify Manchester United's search for quality central midfielders.
