Odysseas Vlachodimos keen to leave Benfica amid Manchester United links

Goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos is said to be keen to leave Benfica amid reports linking him to Manchester United. Erik ten Hag is on the hunt for a new back-up keeper and has had his eye on Vlachodimos for a while, having explored the possibility of signing him last summer before bringing in Martin Dubravka instead.

Though Andre Onana has been brought in to be the new No.1, the need for a No.2 between the sticks has increased greatly over the past couple of weeks thanks to an injury to Tom Heaton that has left Dean Henderson as the only other senior keeper at the club.

But the England international is heavily linked with leaving Old Trafford this summer, with Crystal Palace reportedly in talks to sign him. With this in mind, United have enquired about the availability of Vlachodimos who starred for Benfica last season as they won the Portuguese league title, conceding just 39 goals in 54 games across all competitions, keeping 28 clean sheets in the process.

And their chances of landing him have taken a boost, with the Daily Mail reporting that the 29-year-old wants out having seemingly fallen out of favour with manager Roger Schmidt. Schmidt is said to have criticised the Greek international and did not name him in the matchday squad for Benfica’s win against Estrela over the weekend.

It is not known whether the cub will sanction his departure and if so how much he would cost, having only signed a new contract back in March that expires in 2027. It is believed that his deal contains a release clause of €60million (£51.1m) but it is extremely unlikely that United would pay this given their current finances and the fact that they only just signed Onana for £47m.

So far, Vlachodimos has played 224 games for Benfica since joining them in 2018, winning two league titles and two Portuguese super cups. For now, Onana and Henderson are preparing for United’s next game against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

What does this mean for Manchester United?

The addition of Odysseas Vlachodimos could be a major boost for Manchester United, as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping options. The Greek international has proven himself to be a reliable shot-stopper and could provide cover for Onana and Henderson if needed.

However, it remains to be seen whether Benfica will be willing to let Vlachodimos leave and how much he would cost if they do. With his release clause set at €60million, it is unlikely that United would be willing to pay such a high fee for a back-up keeper.

Conclusion

Odysseas Vlachodimos is reportedly keen to leave Benfica amid reports linking him to Manchester United. The Greek international has been impressive for Benfica over the past few seasons and could provide cover for Onana and Henderson if needed.

However, it remains to be seen whether Benfica will be willing to let Vlachodimos leave and how much he would cost if they do. With his release clause set at €60million, it is unlikely that United would be willing to pay such a high fee for a back-up keeper.