Benfica are open to taking Manchester United centre back Phil Jones on loan in the January transfer window, according to reports.
Jones has played 165 Premier League matches for United since his arrival back in 2011, including 17 times during the 2012/12 title-winning campaign under Sir Alex Ferguson.
But, the England star’s last two seasons have been blighted by injuries, with the defender not playing a single first-team minute since he scored in the 6-1 FA Cup victory over Tranmere in January 2020.
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He has worked his way back into contention having been named on the substitutes bench several times under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and new interim manager Ralf Rangnick, but never made it onto the pitch.
Rangnick has also confirmed that he’ll be focusing on selling some fringe players in January, meaning Jones could be allowed to leave if an offer was to arrive.
And according to the Daily Mail, Benfica are currently looking to bring in a versatile defender on loan, a move which could suit both Manchester United and Jones.
Meanwhile, United striker Anthony Martial is another player who could leave the Premier League club in January.
The French star, who has played a bit-part role for the club so far this campaign, is keen to join Spanish team Sevilla as he looks set to hold discussions with Rangnick in the coming days.
Earlier this month, Martial’s agent, Philippe Lamboley revealed that the player wanted to leave the club amid a lack of playing time.
‘Anthony wishes to leave the club in January,’ Lamboley told Sky Sports News.
‘He just needs to play. He doesn’t want to stay in January and I will speak to the club soon.’
