Several Manchester United players have been linked with Old Trafford exits in recent times after struggling to get into the playing XI. But since the arrival of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager, we have seen a few of them get back into the first-team picture as well. Alex Telles and Diogo Dalot are great examples of that. But even then, there are some, for whom a move away from the club makes a lot of sense despite the change in manager.
Phil Jones is one such player. He has spent a long time out with injury and his last competitive match for Manchester United was back in January of 2020. Thus, it is almost two years since he played senior level football.
As a result, Jones leaving at this point of time would make sense for both Manchester United as well as the player.
And as reported by the Daily Mail, Jones is a potential target for Benfica in January. The Portuguese side are looking to bring in a versatile defender on loan and that could suit the Manchester United star very well.
Benfica could be an option for struggling Manchester United star
Once considered one of the brightest young defenders in the world, it is safe to say that Jones could do with a change. While still 29 years of age, it feels very unlikely that he would break into the Manchester United starting XI anytime soon.
There are players like Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof firmly ahead of him in the pecking order at Old Trafford.
A loan move away could be perfect for Jones at this point. It would allow him to play some football once again and would not be a long-term commitment. Thus, if things don’t work out, he could return to Manchester United and then look for other options.