Marseille ‘to consider’ Benfica centre-back Mauro Furtado, not António Silva | OneFootball

Marseille are weighing a move for Benfica centre-back Mauro Furtado after his standout under-17 World Cup campaign for Portugal. Beyond António Silva, Furtado could be the next defender to leave the club.

According to Glorioso 1904, several French outlets have flagged the 17-year-old to the Ligue 1 club, and sporting director Grégory Lorenzi is pursuing a blend of experience and high-upside youth that suits Furtado. He is entering the final year of his deal and does not plan to renew, which could make any approach easier.

Developed at Seixal, Furtado is viewed as a modern defender, physically strong, composed in possession and technically polished. He helped Portugal win the under-17 World Cup, scoring once in two appearances.

Marseille face competition. Leeds United and Sassuolo are also monitoring the situation, which may drive up interest and complicate Benfica’s hopes of keeping him.

The centre-back was among the under-17 world champions welcomed at Seixal by Rui Costa and José Mourinho. Team-mates Anísio Cabral, José Neto and Banjaqui have since renewed contracts and joined the first-team group.

Furtado’s next step remains undecided as Benfica assess options around one of their leading prospects.

Source: Glorioso 1904