Spanish champions Barcelona could be about to rival Manchester United in the race to sign long-term target Victor Lindelof from Benfica, according to reports in Portugal.
O Jogorevealed that Luis Enrique's sidesent a scout to watch Lindelof in action during last weekend's 3-0 Benfica win over Nacional, sparking talk that the club could be ready to make a summer transfer offer for the Swedish international.
According to O Jogo, FC Barcelona have joined the race for Benfica defender Victor Lindelof. pic.twitter.com/dsIx6HYQ7I
While the initial report doesn't go as far as suggesting that will happen, United will no doubt be wary that they have competition for the player's signature. Antonio Conte's Chelsea have also been linked with the 22-year-old, though United are still the favourites to eventually land the defender later down the line.
The move was reportedly set to take place in January, though after contract wrangles and confusion over ownership rights and sell on clauses - as well as the fact that United's injury problems in defence cleared up - Jose Mourinho chose not to make a move.
The likes of Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo have been excellent for United of late, while the club also boast summer signing Eric Bailly and Chris Smalling as alternative options in the centre of the back four.
Recent developments in the player's current agreement with Benfica have however led to reports that United - or even Barcelona should they follow up their interest - will have to pay as much as £50m to sign him after Benfica inserted a new release clause into his contract. This is a significant increase on the £38m the Primeira Liga leaders were set to settle on in January.
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