Swansea City are preparing for a busy January transfer window under new manager Vitor Matos, who wants to make his stamp on the club.
The 37-year-old took over a struggling club, and while the win over Oxford United was much-needed, the Swans are still nervously looking over their shoulders as they try to climb out of the relegation zone.
That demonstrates the enormity of Matos’ challenge, and he will undoubtedly have names lined up to join the club as he seeks to implement his system with the Welsh club.
Manuel Benson could leave Swansea City in January.
However, it will not be all about incomings, and Matos will understand that certain exits are required to free up space and monies.
The Portuguese manager has already stated that Manuel Benson may be among those who leave, with the winger facing an unclear future once he returns from AFCON action with Angola.
Benson is only on loan at Swansea from Burnley, but his little influence suggests that it hasn’t succeeded, so returning to Turf Moor and moving elsewhere could benefit all parties.
Of course, Benson has previously demonstrated his quality in the Championship, having played for Vincent Kompany’s side as they won the title in 2022/23.
Three clubs should explore a temporary move for Benson (28 years old).
Norwich City
Phillipe Clement faces a daunting task in keeping Norwich in the Championship, thus the club may need to bet on someone like Benson to bolster the squad.
Ante Crnac will miss the rest of the season due to injury, while Papa Diallo has made few appearances and may not return until 2026.
As a result, bringing in a few attackers will be a priority, and Benson might be a perfect fit for the Belgian’s style of play because he provides width, is direct, and can give the x-factor that Norwich sometimes lacks.
There are risks to this potential deal, but, as previously stated, Norwich’s precarious position may force them to gamble, and if Benson rediscovers his best form, he would benefit the Norfolk outfit, and he could be just what Josh Sargent needs to get back to scoring regularly.
West Brom
West Brom have struggled this season, and one of the main reasons for that has been a lack of spark in the final third, so signing someone like Benson makes sense.
The sale of Tom Fellows has deprived Albion of genuine pace and inventiveness, and while Benson might not have the same skill-set as the Southampton player, he is capable of breaking down the rival defence.
Albion’s style of play can be predictable at times, and Ryan Mason needs to take the handbrake off if he wants to re-engage the supporters after a torrid run – and Benson could help.
You would expect the Baggies to prioritize bringing in at least one winger, so Benson would address that issue, even if more reinforcements are required.
Millwall
With Millwall now leading the Championship, it may appear unusual that they are looking for a player who has failed to make an impression at struggling Swansea.
However, if Benson reaches his peak, he is capable of playing a role for practically anyone in the league, and he would provide more talent and flare to a competent Millwall club that occasionally lacks star power.
Furthermore, his ability from dead ball might benefit Alex Neil’s side, but Benson would struggle to get into the XI on a consistent basis given how well the Lions have performed.
However, their current position in the standings will make them an enticing choice next month, and a loan deal for Benson may be a low-risk, high-reward move for Millwall.
xz
