Manchester United Plan To Rope In Benfica’s Young Sensation Gem Joao Neves: Report

Manchester United are set to have a pretty busy summer transfer window, their first under the new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s regime.

Ahead of the 2024-25 season, Manchester United are expected to undergo a major overhaul as they are in real danger of missing out on a top-four spot in the Premier League and thus a place in next season’s Champions League. According to a report published by Mirror, Manchester United have their heart set on signing Benfica’s teenage wonderkid Joao Neves.

Manchester United need reinforcements in a variety of areas and the team management is anticipated to make a move for at least two defenders and possibly as many attackers.

This summer, an overhaul of the midfield is also being predicted; Christian Eriksen and Casemiro may both depart, while Sofyan Amrabat’s permanent signing from Fiorentina seems improbable.

Joao Neves, a 19-year-old, is considered one of the top young talents in European football and he has been strongly linked to Manchester United for a summer transfer ahead of the next season. The defensive midfielder is considered to be cut from the same cloth as renowned Italian midfielder Marco Verratti.

Joao Neves has a strong presence at the base of the midfield and uses his physical acumen to good effect while shielding the defence while also being blessed with an eagle-eyed vision to find players with his immaculate distribution.

Joao Neves’ contract with Benfica expires on June 30, 2028. It includes a £102 million (€120 million) release clause, which the Portuguese outfit want to be paid in full by Manchester United this summer should they showcase genuine interest in the player. It would become Manchester United’s record signing of all time. The 19-year-old recently refused to admit that this future beyond the current campaign lies with The Eagles, only adding more fuel to the fire.

Joao Neves is undoubtedly one of the brightest young prospects across Europe at the moment, with many big names linked to a transfer for the Portuguese sensation. Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to bring the teenager to Old Trafford as the INEOS boss is believed to oversee a host of incomings and outgoings in what promises to be a pretty busy summer for the Premier League giants.