Manchester United is anticipated to experience a hectic summer transfer window, with numerous players who are currently out of favor likely to depart.
Manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged this situation in several press conferences.
According to a report from The Times, Victor Lindelof is “expected” to leave the Red Devils upon the expiration of his contract at the conclusion of the current season.
The center-back is being targeted by his former club, Benfica, who view him as a potential replacement for Nicolas Otamendi, who is attracting interest from River Plate.
Lindelof cherishes his five-year tenure with the Portuguese club and is keen on making a return to the Estadio da Luz this summer.
United poised to offload Lindelof on a free transfer
The 30-year-old has served as a rotational player under manager Erik ten Hag for the past two seasons; however, his playing time has significantly diminished this season.
There were expectations that Lindelof would receive increased playing time under Amorim, given their previous collaboration at Benfica. Unfortunately, the Portuguese manager has not provided him with the opportunities anticipated.
Even with a back three formation, Amorim has shown a preference for other players, opting for Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez (who is currently injured), and Noussair Mazraoui in central defensive roles.
Lindelof made an appearance in the second half of the FA Cup fifth round match against Fulham, replacing Yoro. It remains uncertain whether he will be included in the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Real Sociedad.
Although Maguire was substituted due to a minor injury last weekend, he is expected to recover in time.
It seems prudent for United to consider parting ways with Lindelof, as retaining a player who is not part of the manager’s future plans is illogical.
The departure of the defender will result in a reduction of the club’s annual wage bill by £6.2 million.