United defender pushing for return to former club after frustrating spell under Amorim – report

Manchester United centre-back Victor Lindelof reportedly wants to return to Benfica.

Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford has opened the doors for United central defenders to accumulate more minutes, as the Portuguese tactician’s philosophy is based around the 3-4-3 formation.

Harry Maguire, who struggled for regular gametime under Erik ten Hag, has now become a key part of Amorim’s setup. However, the ex-Sporting CP boss’ arrival has done little to change the fortunes of Lindelof.

Despite long-term injuries to Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez, the Sweden international has remained a peripheral figure under Amorim.

The 30-year-old is yet to start a Premier League game this term and has managed just over 400 minutes across all competitions. He delivered a shaky display against Fulham in the FA Cup after coming on as a second-half substitute on Sunday.

Lindelof’s contract is due to expire at the end of the season and at this point, United have not indicated any desire to hand him a new deal.

According to the Portuguese publication Record (via Sport Witness), Lindelof wants to return to Benfica, eight years after departing Portugal for England.

Before joining the Jose Mourinho-led United in 2017, the Swede spent around five years at Benfica and it is claimed that he welcomes the possibility of playing for the Eagles once again.

It is understood that Lindelof frequently visits Portugal and feels the time is right for him to re-sign for Benfica.

The prospect of signing the United centre-back as a free agent appears attractive for the Portuguese outfit but it remains unclear how keen they are to secure his services.

Currently, Benfica are blessed with defenders Nicolas Otamendi, Tomas Araujo, Antonio Silva, and Adrian Bajrami to guard their penalty area.

United, meanwhile, reportedly decided against signing Benfica left-back Alvaro Carreras in January as Amorim preferred Patrick Dorgu to strengthen his flanks.

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