Marco Silva ‘has two defensive targets’ for Benfica, with one a familiar face | OneFootball

Benfica are reshaping their squad for next season, with centre-back reinforcements now an absolute priority after Nicolás Otamendi’s departure. President Rui Costa and head coach Marco Silva are already weighing options for the back line.

A Bola reports that Jorge Cuenca is among the leading candidates, the Spanish centre-back currently at Fulham having previously worked with Silva in England.

The 26-year-old is under contract until 2028, and a deal could be achievable for around 10 million euros. The coach-player connection could prove decisive, with Cuenca seen as offering balance, experience and build-up quality suited to Benfica’s next iteration.

Another option on the table is Stefan de Vrij. The Netherlands international, 34, is a free agent after leaving Inter Milan and was a name proposed while José Mourinho was still shaping plans for Benfica’s next campaign.

Despite his pedigree at the highest level, De Vrij’s potential arrival comes with internal reservations. Doubts over the defender’s physical condition could weigh on the final call from the SAD.

Source: Glorioso 1904