Manchester United Make £7m Bid for Argentina and Benfica Star Enzo Perez

Manchester United have reportedly made an approach to Benfica in an attempt to sign Enzo Perez in the ongoing transfer window.

Portuguese newspaper A Bola claims the Red Devils have tabled a £7m bid to procure the versatile midfielder's services. Perez, who moved to Esatdio da Luz (Stadium of Light) in 2011, enjoyed a good season with the Portuguese capital outfit.

He scored five goals and had seven assists in all competitions, making 46 appearances, helping them to seal the domestic treble with the Primeira Liga, Taca de Portugal and Taca da Liga while finishing runners-up in the Europa League last season.

The Argentinean international is currently in Brazil preparing for the World Cup final against Germany. He has also been linked with a move to Valencia and Lazio despite penning an extension binding him to Benfica till 2018.

The report suggests that United are currently waiting for a response from Jorge Jesus' side in order to initiate talks with Perez, for his proposed transfer. Last month, the 28-year-old had claimed that he was aware of interest from foreign clubs but insisted that he is happy in Portugal.

"I have heard about these possibilities and my agent told me about them too. I am very happy at Benfica, I signed the contract renewal before travelling to join the Argentina squad, which shows that I want to keep wearing this shirt," Perez explained.

"I am feeling very well at Benfica and I know the club will try to do the best for me. I'll respect what they decide," he said.

Earlier, reports have suggested that Valencia are plotting a £20m move, but United's reported offer is very less and it remains to be seen whether Perez will be sold for £7m by Benfica this summer.

However, any move for the central midfielder, who can also play as a winger, is likely to take place only after the World Cup concludes.

He replaced the injured Real Madrid star Angel di Maria in the starting lineup for Alejandro Sabella's side in the semi-final against Netherlands, as the Albiceleste went on to win 4-2 in the penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw.

Following the victory, he expressed his gratitude to Portuguese football by saying, "If I am here today is because the Portuguese football gave me this opportunity, the club where I am, Benfica. I thank all the leaders, the staff, the companions."