Portuguese newspaper Record reported that Man United is pursuing Neves. The 19-year-old star is a holding midfielder with excellent ball handling and impressive dribbling ability.
Commenting on Neves, Bruno Fernandes said: “I’m not sure whether the rumor that Man United is interested in Neves is true or not. I’m sure he’s ready for the next leap in his career.”
“Neves is an excellent player. He is wearing the national team shirt. That’s why many big teams pursue Neves.”
United has been rumored to be interested in signing the 19-year-old as he appears to be among the top prospects heading into the summer transfer window. The Red Devils have dispatched scouts to watch him many times this season, according to Portuguese source Record (via Sport Witness). The most recent visit was for Benfica’s Tuesday night matchup against rivals Sporting. According to the article, their plan is to team up Neves with fellow countryman Fernandes to create a potent midfield duo.
That degree of observation would indicate that the Premier League team is quite interested in Neves, which would support Record’s claim that United is prepared to pay a hefty price for him. The midfielder’s signing is allegedly a “priority” for the Red Devils this summer, and they have set aside more than €100 million (£85.7 million/$107.8 million) to do so. They would even be prepared to spend more than the €105 million (£90 million/$113.2 million) the club paid for Paul Pogba in 2016, according to the report. That transfer fee still stands as the club record.
Benfica will apparently hold out for the highest price even if United is reportedly ready to sign Neves. They are believed to insist that his €120 million (£102.9 million/$129.3 million) release clause be fulfilled, but in an attempt to sweeten the pot, it has been suggested that United youngster Alvaro Carreras, who is now on loan at the Lisbon club, may be moved permanently.
In his first complete transfer market as manager, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the new minority investor, will probably want to close deals as quickly as possible, although this will probably depend on United matching Benfica’s asking price. They will also be aware of Chelsea and Liverpool, two Premier League rivals who are rumored to be keeping an eye on the young player.