The leaders of Manchester United are planning to start talks with Benfica, to bring the talent Joao Neves to Old Trafford. The midfielder, who is only 19 years old, has already secured the starting position in his club, and has caught the eye with very convincing performances on the green field. Neves has been active in a total of 27 matches in all competitions this season, while he also debuted with the Portuguese national team in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Getting Neves to Old Trafford will be quite a difficult mission, and United have pre-empted the situation by already starting talks over a possible summer deal. The value of the midfielder's card is estimated at over 100 million pounds, as Neves is considered one of the most promising talents in Europe.
The English billionaire, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who bought 25% of the shares of Manchester United, is determined to improve the recruitment process at the "Red Devils", bringing more quality names to the team. Neves is considered one of the main priorities, as the player possesses the quality to initiate quite dangerous actions from the back. Competition for the midfielder's services will be fierce, while Benfica coach Roger Schmidt has made it clear that no player will leave in the January transfer window. Schmidt said:
"We are in the middle of the season and we have big objectives. Of course we won't let any of these players go. We need them and nobody wants to leave, so there's no room for questions."
Neves has an active contract with Benfica until 2028, making a deal even more difficult. However, it seems United's bosses are willing to be patient with their target.
